The Brighton Community Food Hub finished 2024 on a high note after increasing their customer base threefold since moving to their Hub Shop in Jetty Road, Old Beach.

Since opening the Hub Shop in February 2024, the Food Hub Team has seen a surge in people accessing their affordable food relief service. Rising cost of living driven by the ever increas­ing cost of essential food items, expensive energy bills, high interest rates and rising rents continues to add financial stress to many individuals and families in our community and beyond.

In March last year, the Food Hub achieved status as a registered charity. Becoming a registered charity opens opportunities for corporate sponsorship which would provide stability and enable the business to continue their good work and to expand further, helping more struggling families.

During 2024, the Food Hub was able to provide food relief for approximately 20,000 people. Many of these people are struggling to put food on the table for their families and to keep their heads above water in these uncertain times.

“We are extremely proud of the work we do and for what we’ve achieved at the Food Hub,” said Food Hub Committee Member and volunteer Jen Rigby. “Helping others in your community is very rewarding and hugely satisfying work.”

The work of the Food Hub has been recognised through various awards since starting the business in 2022, and 2024 was no different, with Treasurer Caroline Bedelph being named Brighton LGA Volunteer of the Year. Caroline is a vitally important part of the Food Hub’s Leadership Team and is a tireless volunteer for her community.

The Food Hub’s successful business model gained further accolades by being named as a Finalist in the Awards Australia Community Group Awards. Food Hub President Geoff Hull said it was a thrill to be amongst the final four for this award. “Although the Food Hub was pipped at the post, it was still a great honour to be named in this elite group of people,” said Geoff.