Waroona residents set to benefit from funding deal between Foodbank WA and Alcoa

Residents in Waroona will receive extra help when it comes to food security under a deal struck with a major employer. Foodbank WA has announced a partnership with bauxite miner and alumina processor Alcoa, which will see the company provide $450,000 in support over the next three years. The deal will see Foodbank WA’s mobile food van service expanded in Waroona and surrounding areas, as well as in other communities in the Peel region and Kwinana where the company also operates. As part of the changes, the not-for-profit group expects to work closer with the Waroona Community Resource Centre to provide the service. Foodbank WA chief executive Kate O’Hara said the group was thankful for the support. “This is critical for our sustainability at the Peel branch so we can continue to bridge the gap of unmet need within the surrounding areas,” she said. Ms O’Hara noted the significant need for food relief in regional communities. “We have seen a rise in demand for our services in the last two years,” she said. “We’ve seen a lot of people put up their hand and ask for help for the first time. With the rising cost of living we know this will continue for some time.” It is hoped the deal will help Foodbank increase the number of meals provided by the Peel branch from about 565,000 this year to 640,000 in 2025.