Coles SecondBite Winter Appeal Raises $1.4 Million to Feed Aussies in Need

Coles Winter Appeal has successfully raised over $1.4 million to support SecondBite in providing meals to Australians in need. The fundraising campaign, which took place across Coles supermarkets and liquor stores, resulted in the equivalent of 7.4 million meals for people facing food insecurity.

Community Engagement and Support

The Coles Winter Appeal saw tremendous support from the community. Donations were made possible through customer contributions at checkout points and significant support from Coles' team members. The active participation of brands like Chobani and Nando’s, which pledged a portion of their sales to the appeal, significantly bolstered the total funds raised.

Daniel Moorfield, CEO of SecondBite, expressed his gratitude for the community’s generosity. “The funds raised are crucial in helping us provide nutritious meals to those in need. The community’s support enables us to continue our mission of ensuring that everyone has access to healthy food,” he said.

Sally Fielke, Coles General Manager of Corporate and Indigenous Affairs, also commended the efforts of all involved. “We are incredibly proud of the dedication shown by our customers and team members. Their contributions make a tangible difference in the lives of many Australians.”

Long-Term Commitment to Food Relief

Since the beginning of their partnership in 2011, Coles and SecondBite have collaborated to deliver more than 250 million meals to those in need. This long-standing relationship highlights Coles' commitment to addressing food insecurity and supporting vulnerable communities across Australia.

The funds from the Coles Winter Appeal will be allocated to approximately 1,000 community partners, including schools, shelters, and soup kitchens. These organizations play a critical role in distributing food to those who need it most.

Partner Brands’ Contributions

The appeal's success was amplified by the generous contributions from partner brands. Chobani and Nando’s, among others, donated a portion of their sales to the cause. These contributions not only boosted the total funds raised but also helped spread awareness about food insecurity in Australia.

Chobani's Managing Director, Peter Meek, emphasized the importance of corporate responsibility in tackling social issues. “Supporting the Coles Winter Appeal is part of our commitment to giving back to the community. We believe in doing our part to ensure everyone has access to nutritious food,” Meek stated.

Impact and Future Initiatives

The Coles Winter Appeal is part of Coles’ broader strategy to support community welfare. Beyond fundraising, Coles engages in various initiatives to combat food waste and promote sustainability. By partnering with organizations like SecondBite, Coles ensures that surplus food is redirected to those in need, rather than ending up in landfills.

Looking ahead, Coles plans to continue its support for SecondBite and other food relief organizations. The company’s ongoing efforts aim to make a significant impact on reducing food insecurity and supporting communities nationwide.

The success of the Coles Winter Appeal demonstrates the power of community collaboration in addressing critical social issues. With continued support from customers, team members, and partner brands, Coles and SecondBite are well-positioned to make a lasting difference in the lives of Australians in need.