Philanthropy, ‘a chain reaction of kindness’
According to Kate O'Hara, CEO of Foodbank WA, fighting hunger needs "a chain reaction of kindness” through the support of individuals and corporate giving.
“Hunger doesn't just disappear; it needs a chain reaction of kindness. Every donation and volunteer hour is a link in that chain, building a brighter future where every plate is full, not just today, but for generations to come,” she said.
“Philanthropy plants seeds of change, not just meals on plates. Education, skills training, social support – these are the roots that nourish a brighter future for generations. Philanthropy helps us to better ensure that nutritious, culturally appropriate food reaches the dinner tables of every Australian. It helps us to educate Western Australians how to plan, prepare and cook meals that are healthy, tasty and cost effective.”
Skills, energy, and passion are “the recipe for corporate impact”, Ms O’Hara explained. “When businesses volunteer, they don't just donate time, they share their expertise, building a stronger, more resilient community alongside us,” she said.
“Corporate volunteering is a workforce we couldn't do without. But they are also a great experience for the volunteers as they get to see the impact of their time firsthand. It's not just about sorting food, it's about building bridges of empathy and understanding."
In Western Australia, one in five households are facing days of no food and one in two households are worried about affording their full food needs. “Giving fills more than stomachs, it fills hearts. The joy of seeing relief on a face you've helped, the feeling of being part of something bigger than yourself – that's a reward money can't buy," Ms O'Hara said.
“Volunteering is more than giving back, it's about gaining perspective. Every hour spent at Foodbank is a lesson in resilience, gratitude, and the power of community."
Find out how you can give in various ways by visiting the Foodbank WA website.
The power of philanthropy
Philanthropic support is transformational, Ronald McDonald House Charities WA Executive Manager Development and Brand Engagement Danielle Norrish explained.
“It is funding that allows charities to be innovative and bold in their service provision, providing better support to their customers. In our case, that’s Western Australian families with ill or injured children,” Mrs Norrish said.
RMHC WA offers many avenues to give, whether its through volunteering, corporate programs or philanthropic giving.
“After a long day of hospital appointments, a home cooked meal is often taken for granted and it’s for that reason we set up our ‘Home for Dinner’ program,” Mrs Norrish said.
“By simply preparing a homemade meal as a group, you’re not just building stronger team bonds, you’re helping to make daily life a little easier for parents caring for their ill or injured child.”
The first step to get involved is to visit the RMHC WA website, where you will find a comprehensive list of all the ways you can get involved and help WA families in need.
“Generosity cultivates happiness and by supporting RMHC WA, whether that’s through volunteering or donating, corporate organisations have the opportunity to not only make a positive impact on the lives of WA families with ill or injured children but also on their employees by giving them the opportunity to make a genuine difference to those families when they need it most,” Mrs Norrish said.
Find out more about Home for Dinner and Lovin from the Oven.