OzHarvest Newcastle delivers its four millionth meal to those in need

OzHarvest Newcastle celebrates a major milestone in their food rescue operations today, delivering its four millionth meal.

OzHarvest's Newcastle Manager, Monique Maguire, explained that in just seven years, over 1.3 million kilos of nourishing surplus food has been saved from landfill and redistributed to people in need.

"Our yellow vans work five days a week to collect and deliver quality excess food to charities, schools and community groups to help those most at risk," Ms Maguire said.

"nib foundation has renewed its funding for the seventh consecutive year in 2017. Thanks to their support, we have been able to expand our food rescue operations helping us to meet the growing demand from charitable agencies." she added.

nib foundation Executive Officer, Amy Tribe, said the $50,000 community grant will enable OzHarvest to increase its efficiency, expand its reach to at least 10 more charitable agencies and also respond to more ad-hoc calls from the community.

"Our long-term partnership with OzHarvest has seen incredible impact across the Hunter region. We congratulate them on delivering four million meals and look forward to seeing continued health and wellbeing outcomes in the community." Ms Tribe said.

OzHarvest's four millionth meal will be received by Merewether Community Kitchen, an agency that transforms surplus produce into delicious meals for local men, women and children in need. Coordinator, Jennifer Burns, said the food agency was thankful to receive ongoing support from OzHarvest.

"We have received weekly deliveries of donated food from OzHarvest since 2010 which donations enables us to produce a three-course meal for free to feed 80+ people in need, including unaccompanied teenagers, the homeless and young families." Ms Burns said.

OzHarvest relies on donations to keep their wheels moving. To support this worthy cause, visit www.ozharvest.org, opens in a new tab. Every $1 donated allows OzHarvest to deliver the equivalent of two nutritious meals.