To help address the increased need for food relief in local communities, OzHarvest Brisbane has teamed up with some of the hospitality sector’s biggest hearts as part of their ‘Hospitality Heroes’ project. Over the next eight weeks, iconic Brisbane food providers including Otto, Pawpaw Café and the Calile will be making around 4,000 delicious, nutritious cooked meals which OzHarvest will deliver along with rescued food, to local charities which help feed people in need.

CEO and Founder of OzHarvest, Ronni Kahn AO, expressed her gratitude for the chefs who continue to support the organisation throughout such a difficult time. “Due to the economic challenges of COVID-19, demand for food relief is at an all-time high. I am truly humbled by the generosity of our Hospitality Heroes, who are donating their precious times and wonderful skills to create nourishing meals for vulnerable communities throughout the region.

“OzHarvest is so lucky to have such wonderful friendships with the restaurant industry, who understand the importance of providing a warm, nutritious meal to someone who is hungry. In these challenging times, knowing you can access good food is one less thing to worry about.”

Will Cowper, Head Chef of OTTO Brisbane, has been a long-time supporter of OzHarvest, and a champion of local suppliers and producers. “While the past year has been incredibly hard for so many, it’s uplifting to see the resilience of the hospitality industry. At OTTO, we are delighted to be supporting OzHarvest to provide delicious meals to people experiencing food insecurity in our local community.”

Gina Venzin, owner of Pawpaw Café, began supporting OzHarvest after the lockdown in March 2020 and has continued their support. “Being an OzHarvest Hospitality Hero allows us to give back to the Brisbane community, which supported us through the pandemic. The team and I are so humbled to be able to create wholesome meals made with love for those doing it tough.”

Annemaree Callander, CEO of Brisbane Youth Service, explains the importance of the cooked meals. “Providing a nourishing, hot meal helps young people focus and allows us to start a broader conversation about what they need help with. To have a meal made by a top Brisbane chef is an added bonus!”

The rise in demand for food relief in the last year has seen OzHarvest introduce a range of new food relief services, including cooked meals. Thanks to the continuous support from the hospitality industry, nearly 800,000 meals have been delivered nationally to help those who need it most.

For further information about OzHarvest Brisbane Hospitality Heroes Program, please contact Michaela Windsor, [email protected].