Food hampers will be delivered by OzHarvest for distribution at Merrylands Service Centre on Tuesdays, 10am-2pm and Berala Community Centre on Fridays, 10am-2pm, which will be open for ‘click and collect’ for those in need.
The offering is in addition to the 200-300 OzHarvest hampers the council is home delivering from its Auburn depot every Thursday and iOzHarvest’s Hamper Hub which from this week, is located at Granville Town Hall.
Mayor Steve Christou says the council has been inundated with requests from the community who have been struggling through the lockdown.
“The ‘click and collect’ model works well for emergency food distribution – it aims to get essentials to the people who need it most while minimising contact among staff and recipients,” Mayor Christou said.
While the food is provided by OzHarvest, the council contributed $50,000 to help purchase personal hygiene and household cleaning products, which are in high demand, including toothpaste, toilet paper, body wash, deodorant, feminine hygiene items and household cleaning products.
OzHarvest Hamper Project Lead, Shannon Richardson said the collaboration with Cumberland Council would extend the reach of the OzHarvest services.
“It’s the first time we’ve worked with a council to do this and we’re looking forward to being able to support more people who need food relief in this area,” Ms Richardson said.
The council’s library staff will also add books, coloured pencils and activity packs for young children.
Residents can register at cumberland.nsw.gov.au or call 8757 9000.
