Image: L-R: Helen Small CEO Casey North CISS; Cr Stefan Koomen City of Casey Mayor; Lidia Gruszka CISS Social Worker; Linda Harper-White Program Manager CISS.
City of Casey Mayor Cr Stefan Koomen and Council have committed to improving food security across the Casey, as food insecurity continues to rise.
With 40% of Casey residents experiencing some level of food insecurity in the past year, Mayor Cr Stefan and Council will advocate to the Victorian and Federal Government to secure greater support for food security in Casey.
“One in ten residents ran out of food and couldn’t afford more, and 22% skipped meals due to financial hardship and the cost-of-living pressures,” explained Mayor Stefan.
“Access to food is a basic human right and we are committed to looking at both emergency relief and long-term systemic change to ensure fewer people need food relief in the long term.”
As a key initiative of Mayor Stefan’s Mayoral term, over the next few months he will visit local providers to hear firsthand about their challenges and help raise awareness of their incredible work.
Emergency food relief organisations, working tirelessly to support those in need, provide more than just food— offering connection, dignity, and a sense of community for those facing hardship.
Recognising the vital role emergency relief providers play in the community, Council has proactively provided $115,333 in grants to 23 emergency food relief groups over the past two years to support their work.
Council will continue to support the organisations through the Community Grants program, which is taking grant applications until 14 March.
For more information on the organisation, residents can find information about support available on Council’s website.
Local businesses, philanthropists, and residents are encouraged to donate directly to food relief organisations — whether it’s food, time, or financial support, it all helps strengthen Casey’s food relief network.
For information on volunteer opportunities, Council hosts a volunteer resource Volunteer Matcher, which connects community groups and volunteers.