Tackling Food Insecurity on International Day of Charity** As we mark International Day of Charity on September 5, it’s crucial to shine a light on one of Western Australia’s most pressing issues: food insecurity. According to the Foodbank Hunger Report 2024, a staggering 34 per cent of Western Australians, or approximately 370,000 households, experienced food insecurity during the 2023-24 financial year.
This crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable demographics, including Indigenous communities, low-income households, single-parent families, and individuals experiencing homelessness. The statistics are alarming: nearly 200,000 households faced ‘severe’ food insecurity, with one in five individuals forced to go without food for days.
Regional and remote areas, whereIndigenous communities often reside, are particularly hard hit. For instance, a recent report by Business News highlighted the struggles of rural communities in accessing basic necessities like food and healthcare. (Business News) So, what can be done to address this issue? Businesses and organisations have a vital role to play in helping to end poverty and food insecurity.
By supporting charitable initiatives and partnering with organisations like Foodbank, companies can make a tangible difference in the ___s of those struggling.
Food insecurity in Australia.
The latest data reveals that over 122,000 people are currently experiencing homelessness on any given night, with many more at risk of joining their ranks. This crisis is not limited to urban areas, with rural and regional communities also feeling the pinch. According to a report by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the number of people experiencing homelessness has increased by 14% since 2016. One of the primary drivers of homelessness is the chronic shortage of affordable housing.
As property prices and rents continue to skyrocket, many individuals and families are finding it impossible to keep up with the costs.
This has led to a surge in people seeking assistance from homelessness services, with many organizations reporting a significant increase in demand for their services. For example, a recent article in Business News highlighted the struggles of low-income households in securing affordable housing in Western Australia. The consequences of homelessness are far-reaching and devastating.
Not only do individuals experiencing homelessness face significant health risks, but they also struggle to access basic services like education and employment.
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International Day of Charity, which takes place on September 5 each year, was established to raise awareness about the role of charitable organisations in addressing social and economic challenges.
One of the most concerning challenges currently impacting WA is food insecurity, with recent data revealing that 34 per cent of Western Australians were food insecure.
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