AUSTRALIA | Coles has launched its annual appeal for the national food rescue charity SecondBite to help feed Australians who are having a harsh winter.
The Coles SecondBite Winter Appeal has kicked off alongside new SecondBite research conducted by YouGov, revealing that just over three quarters (76 percent) of Australians struggled more financially in winter. This financial strain is most commonly due to high electricity or energy bills, with those living in South Australia, Victoria, and NSW struggling the most.
Until the end of July, customers can help support SecondBite in more than 1,800 supermarkets and Coles Liquor stores nationally by purchasing a $2 donation card at a Coles supermarket or by donating at any Vintage Cellars, Liquorland, or First Choice Liquor Market store. Donations can also be made via Coles Online.
Another way to support SecondBite at Coles this winter is through well-loved FMCG brands like Chobani, Mount Franklin, Nando’s, and the Natural Chip Co. joining the cause. A portion of sales from selected products sold in all Coles supermarkets or on Coles Online will go towards the appeal.
All funds raised by Coles, its customers, and FMCG suppliers will enable SecondBite to deliver unsold, edible fruit, vegetables, bread, and other grocery staples to more than 1,000 charities and community partners across Australia who provide food relief through cooked meals, food hampers, and community pantries.
SecondBite CEO Daniel Moorfield said the need for food relief was heightened during winter and urged shoppers to support the appeal by purchasing a $2 donation card or participating product at Coles. By integrating FMCG brands into this appeal, Coles and SecondBite are harnessing the power of everyday grocery shopping to support those in need during the colder months.
“The need for food relief is exacerbated this winter as many vulnerable Aussies are faced with choosing between heating or eating, finding they can no longer make their budget work to cover the necessities,” said Moorfield.
“The funds raised at Coles will help SecondBite to meet the increased demands and will help us to continue to rescue and deliver nutritious food free of charge to more than 1,000 community food partners.”
Coles Chief Operations and Sustainability Officer Matt Swindells added that the annual Winter Appeal was essential for Coles to support SecondBite.
“Coles is incredibly proud of our longstanding partnership with SecondBite, which in turn supports local charities and community organisations across Australia, including schools, neighbourhood houses, domestic violence crisis shelters and Indigenous health services,” said Swindells.
“Our partnership with SecondBite extends beyond raising funds so that they can continue their essential service of delivering rescued food to vulnerable Australians. We are also tackling food waste by diverting unsold, edible food from landfills and onto the plates of those who need it most.”
Since 2011, Coles has donated over 250 million meals to SecondBite, with food rescued from supermarkets and distribution centres.
