Melton’s needy will be able to access free or low-cost food during the next four months after the state government contributed $110,000 to two community groups to hold pop-up food relief markets.
Afro Pearls Victoria director Olivia Nakazibwe said the funding is welcome as food price increases had caused economic hardship in her Ugandan community.
“It’s an opportunity to help,” she said.
“It will also be very beneficial in bringing people together.”
The Earth Village Community at 43 Unitt Street, which provides bread and produce, will receive $85,000 to hold 10 markets, while Afro Pearls Victoria at 22 Tamboritha Boulevard, which provides catering and services to the Ugandan community, will receive $25,000 to hold nine markets.
Melton MP Steve McGhie said no Victorian should have to worry about having enough to eat.
“These pop-up markets are an innovative way to help Victorians who need it most to put food on their table,” he said.
The state government announced on Tuesday, October 18 that close to 30 metropolitan community organisations will receive $1.24 million in grants to hold suburban pop-up food markets by April to provide free or low-cost nutritious and culturally-appropriate food, such as fresh produce and hot meals, as well as holding cooking classes.
Details: The Earth Village Community on 1300 525 332 or happytohelp@earthvillage.org.au or Afro Pearls Victoria on 0481 250 724 or afropearlsvictoria@gmail.com
