A reclaimed food program helping disadvantaged people in the Camden Haven community is going from strength to strength after starting in November.
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Hosted at the Laurieton United Services Club the Food Connect program is run by the Hastings Neighbourhood Service Lake Cathie and is designed to redirect good quality food from Lakewood Woolworths to those who need it most.
The same program has been going in Port Macquarie and Wauchope for a long time and after organisers saw a need decided to implement it in Laurieton.
Hastings Neighbourhood Service Lake Cathie coordinator Brandan Woollam said since the program began in November it has been a great success.
"We saw there was a need in the community for a program like this and we are so glad that is it able to help those who are homeless or disadvantaged," Mr Woollam said.
Each Friday, Food Connect volunteers collect a range of food items from Lakewood Woolworths and distribute the goods after a breakfast at the Laurieton United Services Club outdoor area facing the river.
Breakfast is from 8.30am and the food distribution is at 9am.
"The program is a wonderful opportunity for volunteers and community members to come together and socialise and do some good," he said.
"It is 360 win with food not going to waste, the community coming together to help disadvantaged people and people in general are reconnecting with people in their area."
Mr Woollam said that the team are always on the look out for volunteers and food that can be reclaimed.
"If you would like to donate some time each week or so to help the program we would love to hear from you.
"Likewise if you know of any good quality, excess fresh fruit or vegetables that can be reclaimed we would again love to hear from you."