As construction on Bendigo Foodshare’s new warehouse progresses ahead of schedule, with the concrete slab, frame and roof now completed, Hanson Construction Materials has made a $50,000 donation to contribute to the funding of the new $3.8 million building.

The $50,000 cheque was officially handed over to Bendigo Foodshare today at the site in Golden Square.

Mark Kersley, Country Operations Manager from Hanson said he was proud to be contributing to the work of Bendigo Foodshare.

“To be able to support Bendigo Foodshare and the community is truly humbling. The passion and dedication the Bendigo Foodshare team demonstrate is a credit to the individuals involved,” Mr Kersley said.

Bendigo Foodshare CEO Michelle Murphy thanked Hanson for the generous donation.

“It has been incredible to see the number of trades and service organisations, including Hanson, getting behind this project,” Ms Murphy said.

“Since plans were first developed a number of years ago, the cost of pretty much everything has increased. We would not have been able to achieve what we have so far without the significant discounts and in-kind support we’ve received from local trades and suppliers.

“Each month our builders Fairbrother hit a new exciting milestone, and all is on track to get the keys to the building in October this year. Back in February Hanson poured the concrete slab, with the frame and roof going on in March, and this month we’re looking forward to seeing the cool and cold stores installed and the driveway and car park completed.

“Seeing the building going up rapidly is so exciting, especially for our volunteers, who work tirelessly 7 days a week to provide food relief to people in need from our tired and cramped warehouse.

“The construction of our new home has been made possible thanks to the generosity of our community. We thank the many individuals, businesses, and donors who have all contributed to help us raise over $3.5 million to date towards this project.”

Ms Murphy added that the construction of the warehouse was an important first step to achieve its vision of a community food hub at the site.

“As the building takes shape, we are now turning our focus towards funding development of the land around the warehouse with immediate priorities including fencing, landscaping and an outdoor area for our volunteers,” Ms Murphy said.

The new warehouse will triple Bendigo Foodshare’s storage capacity and will have a significant impact on its capacity to provide food relief to Central Victorians in need.