FOOD CRISIS CENTRE
Welcome to our Food Crisis and Referral Centre
Many people struggle with food insecurity, without reliable access to nutritious food. If you or anyone you know needs food, you’ve come to the right place.
Our Food Crisis and Referral Centre is the heart of Encompass Care VIC. We do our best to meet your dietary requirements, we give out non perishable items,
fresh fruit and vegetables, school snacks, chilled and frozen goods. We can also assist with toiletries, nappies, sanitary items and baby goods.Our process is easy, either call us here or pop in to one of our Food Rooms in Bundoora or Mernda, directions here.
You will meet our friendly staff who will assist you with food to take away and you’ll be taken through a quick intake process to establish any further point of need.
We make referrals regarding various supports, such as family violence, financial hardship, homelessness, depression and more.
Click here if you need help and need immediate access.Our team are available if you are in need of a listening ear or a friendly chat, our heart is that you have access to the essentials for healthy daily living.
So if you need assistance, it would be our privilege to assist you.
THE CHALLENGE: FOOD INSECURITY
Food insecurity means not having reliable access to enough affordable, nutritious food. It’s a growing issue across Australia, with 1 in 7 people affected each year (Foodbank VIC). That’s 3.7 million Australians who struggle to put food on the table.
The impacts are serious: chronic hunger, poor nutrition, and a reduced ability to live healthy, productive lives. At Encompass Care VIC, we’re here to help change that.
OUR RESPONSE: FOOD CRISIS AND REFERRAL SERVICES
At Encompass Care Vic, we’re committed to providing practical support in times of need. As a key food hub for over 50 organisations across Melbourne, we focus on helping individuals and families facing hardship find stability and hope.
We offer comprehensive food relief, including non-perishable items, fresh fruit and vegetables, frozen meals, dairy, meat, bread, and a wide selection of school snacks for children.
Every person who comes through our doors is treated with dignity. During intake interviews, we take the time to understand each situation, ensuring everyone feels safe and connected to the right support services to help them move forward.
OUR IMPACT
2,980 FOOD PARCELS TO FAMILIES
GIVEN OVER 24,804KG OF FOOD
FARM TO FAMILIES
We work closely with Foodbank Victoria in the Farms 2 Families Program allowing families to access fresh produce direct from the farms into their homes. In October 2016 & March 2017 we ran the Farm 2 Families market. On each occasion approximately 170 families attended, equating to over 550 individuals who were assisted with food on the day.
This program is subject to funding.