The Earth Recovery centre in Katoomba is expanding and would love to have more help on board as it grows.
Earth Recovery has myriad programs to help those in need and to ensure their work is done sustainably.
The Food Rescue van goes out daily to “rescue” food from the major supermarkets, large bakeries and other producers.
The food is either distributed directly to those who need a helping hand or converted to meals which are provided at the community Soul Kitchen.
The woman behind the enterprise, Rosa Del Ponte, said they had rescued about 60,000 kilograms of food in the last 12 months.
“And it’s a complete closed loop with us – what doesn’t get given away is made into meals and any waste is composted.”
They send food on to other groups who help distribute it, Ms Del Ponte said.
“There are at least 20 organisations now that we distribute to on a regular basis and they have become food centres for Food Rescue.”
These include Blackheath Op Shop, neighbourhood centres in Blackheath, Katoomba and the Mid Mountains, as well as Catholic Care in Springwood.
They also run an op shop at 142 Katoomba Street, and have a newly renovated bathroom and laundry for use by those without access to one.
Bendigo Bank and Fantastic Aussie Tours have become sponsors of the food rescue van but Ms Del Ponte is always on the lookout for more. See earthrecoveryaustralia.org.au.
