Before the June 18 event, eight previous Make a Meal of June events had raised a combined $720,000.
The funds are raised through ticket sales to a three-course dinner event at The Woolshed, monthly partnerships, donations and raffle ticket sales.
Before official proceedings concluded and the crowd dispersed, it was announced that $85,100 had been raised on Wednesday night, including a $15,000 donation from the Margaret Attwood Trust, and excluding raffle ticket sales, which will be tallied after they close in another week.
However, an anonymous donation at the end of the night boosted that total to $110,000.
“We are delighted at the outcome of Make a Meal of June and remain in awe of those who support Shepparton Foodshare, contributing to our annual operating expenses,” Shepparton Foodshare executive officer Dee Healey said.
“This incredible support helps to keep our doors open and supporting people facing food insecurity to have dignified access to culturally appropriate and nutritious food.”
Event attendees were updated on Foodshare’s operations at its new purpose-built food relief warehouse and distribution centre.
Guest speakers from Gowrie Street Primary School, principal Eron Chapman and Mandiga Algabonya meals co-ordinator Chelsea Smith, gave a presentation, outlining how Shepparton Foodshare provides around 90 per cent of the food to support the school’s lunch program, which is having a significant impact on their students and families.
Kevin Hicks once again auctioned off the 12 months of the year to bidders who claimed their place on the Foodshare calendar for a $5000 contribution to be a monthly partner.
Ms Healey thanked all contributors and attendees at the dinner who had “come together as a community while enjoying the beautiful meals and the warm hospitality of The Woolshed @ Emerald Bank”.
