17 April, 2020

NSWALC Challenges Corporate Partners to Assist With Food Relief Campaign

The NSW Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has challenged corporate organisations to join its campaign to provide food relief for vulnerable and isolated Aboriginal communities impacted by COVID-19.

Retail giant Woolworths has thrown its weight behind the program, matching NSWALC’s commitment with a further 1000 Basics Boxes to help those most in need. It follows a partnership established by NSWALC with the NSW Government.

NSWALC Chair Anne Dennis thanked Woolworths for its commitment to address critical food needs in Aboriginal communities and urged other organisations to step up as well.

“I’m very pleased to know how seriously Woolworths regards NSWALC’s efforts to deliver food relief to our people across the state. It shows significant corporate responsibility and these additional 1000 boxes underscore the company’s commitment to food security for our people,” Cr Dennis said.

“We encourage other corporate partners to follow Woolworths’ lead and join us to provide urgent assistance to these vulnerable communities. Together we can solve this problem and make significant positive change so I challenge other corporates who are in a position to help to please join us on this campaign.”

Woolworths General Manager Chris Cramond said it was important in times like these that organisations work together to make a difference for Aboriginal communities.

“The recent pressure on grocery supply chains caused by an unprecedented surge in demand has affected many Australians, including those in remote Indigenous communities,” Mr Cramond said.

“We’re pleased to be working with the NSW Aboriginal Land Council to offer an immediate and practical solution through the provision of thousands of Basics Boxes for those in need.”

“We will continue to do what we can to underpin food security for these remote communities in close consultation with government and community stakeholders.”

The Food Relief Campaign was launched on Tuesday and was met with immediate demand from communities in need across New South Wales. More than 1100 registrations were lodged within the first 48 hours, both online and via the telephone hotline.

You can find further information and register at www.alc.org.au.