News

MVAC supporting community during COVID-19

Sun, 31 May 2020 21:38:00

MORE than 64 food parcels and hundreds of meals have been delivered across Robinvale as part of impressive efforts to support the local community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s all part of the work being done by the Murray Valley Aboriginal Cooperative (MVAC), under the watchful eyes of HACC coordinator Ceno Biles and housing manager Vicki Morris.

“Now, more than ever, people in our community need our help and we’re working extra hard to deliver food to those in need,” MVAC Chief Executive Officer Paul O’Neill said.

“Providing emergency food relief has been a big effort, but our community members really appreciate this support.”

The COVID-19 response has been a top priority for MVAC, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Victorians considered a high risk for COVID-19 due to higher rates of pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, heart and lung disease.

“We have been preparing meals twice a week for 50 community members who are part of the Commonwealth Home Support Program, and packing up food parcels to deliver to people in our community,” Ceno Biles explained.

“Getting this food out to people means they have that extra bit of support during a time of need.”

The food parcels have been put together with the support of Foodbank, which is Australia’s largest food-relief organisation.

“When the food gets delivered, you know you are really helping someone in a practical way,” Ceno said.

“It is a meal they don’t have to worry about buying and cooking, or it’s food in their cupboards that might not have been there otherwise, so you know it’s really making a difference to them.”

For more information on the emergency food relief provided by MVAC, contact 5026 3353.

Ends

Pictured: Vicki Morris and Ceno Biles with food prepared for local community members.

Pictured: Barb Job and Vicki Morris pack emergency food relief packages for Robinvale community members.