Published on Monday, 21 July 2025 at 11:55:02 AM
Monthly Food Relief Initiative: $50 Voucher for Village Grocer Supported by Community Organisations
In an inspiring display of community support and generosity, a vital food relief program is being provided to those in need once a month through a $50 voucher for Village Grocer, in addition to $500 per term for both Sacred Heart Catholic School and Goomalling Primary School to provide food relief to students via initiatives such as Breakfast Club. These initiatives are funded by Vinnies, a key organisation in social justice and assistance, and is strongly supported by Sacred Heart Church Goomalling, the Uniting Church, and the Shire of Goomalling. With such collaboration, this effort is helping ease the financial burden on families and individuals who are struggling to make ends meet.
In recent years, economic challenges have made it increasingly difficult for some members of the community to afford even necessities. With inflation affecting grocery prices and living costs rising, many are finding themselves having to make difficult decisions between paying bills or buying food. Families, seniors, and vulnerable individuals are especially hard hit by these pressures.
It is in this context that food relief programs like our community food relief have become crucial in providing a buffer for those experiencing hardship. For many, a small contribution like a grocery voucher can go a long way in easing the strain on their budgets, allowing them to access nutritious food and improve their overall well-being.
The program is made possible by the collective efforts of the Sacred Heart Church Goomalling, the Uniting Church, and the Shire of Goomalling. These local organisations have partnered together to ensure the smooth operation and outreach of the food relief program. Their collaboration provides logistical support needed to distribute the vouchers but also the much-needed sense of community for those receiving assistance.
Sacred Heart Church and the Shire of Goomalling plays a central role in coordinating the distribution of vouchers, ensuring that those who require help can access the program with ease. The church’s dedication to social outreach, led by Father Daniel is a cornerstone of this initiative. Goomalling Uniting Church provide the service centre for food relief, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment.
At the heart of this food relief initiative is Village Grocer, a local business that has shown exceptional commitment to the community by partnering with Vinnies and the churches. By providing the $50 vouchers, Village Grocer ensures that recipients can access a wide range of groceries, including fresh produce, pantry staples, dairy products, and household necessities.
The convenience of being able to shop at a local, trusted grocer helps recipients feel a sense of dignity and choice in their purchasing decisions, rather than feeling like their options are limited to pre-packaged, less nutritious items. This partnership emphasises the importance of supporting local businesses while also supporting those in need.
For those who benefit from the program, the $50 voucher is more than just a financial aid tool—it represents a lifeline. It enables families to continue putting healthy food on the table without the stress of choosing between basic needs. It allows seniors to maintain their independence by securing food without relying on others. And for individuals in difficult circumstances, it provides hope and reassurance that they are not alone.
As the cost of living continues to rise, the importance of community-driven initiatives like this becomes even more apparent. The success of this program highlights the power of collaboration—how local organisations, churches, businesses, and governments can come together to make a real, tangible difference in people’s lives.
For more information about the program or volunteering with the local Vinnies branch, contact Tahnee Bird, Community Development Officer cdo@goomalling.wa.gov.au
Back to All News