Foodbank Limestone Coast has added another vehicle to its fleet, thanks to a generous donation from the Motor Dealers of South Australia.

Vehicles were donated to Mount Gambier, Whyalla, Murray Bridge and metropolitan Adelaide, and carry the branding ‘Donated by The Motor Dealers of South Australia’.

An ageing fleet in need of an upgrade to meet increasing demand prompted Foodbank SA to expand their 12-vehicle fleet to include an additional five refrigerated vehicles.

The Motor Dealers of South Australia came on board to support the cause, with a financial commitment to fund five new 4×2 refrigerated vehicles.

Automotive Exhibitors Association (AEA) board member representing the OGR Group Peter Roberts advocated to the AEA for Foodbank SA to be the chosen charity.

“I was pleased the AEA were able to support a regional area in Mount Gambier, which is my hometown, which I have been a supporter for as well over the years,” Mr Roberts said.

“It is a great cause, once you really go to the heart of people’s problems of the world, people have to eat to survive, so that’s a reason why I think Foodbank is such a great cause to support.

“It is also great the car industry has been able to put something back into the community that is relevant to our industry and what people can get the maximum benefit out of.”

Foodbank Limestone Coast distributes more than 400,000 meals across the Limestone Coast every year and works with more than 130 local charities and schools.

Regional Branch Manager Lynne Neshoda was ecstatic about the donation to Foodbank Limestone Coast.

“We are very thankful, firstly to Peter Roberts for advocating to the Automotive Exhibitors Association he is involved in for Foodbank SA to be the chosen charity,” Ms Neshoda said.

“Secondly, having another refrigerated vehicle at Foodbank SA on the Limestone Coast allows us to collect more food throughout the region and to redistribute to agencies, schools, and community groups.

“Having one refrigerated vehicle has had its trying times over the years, the need for food relief is ever increasing and working that logistically in our region has been hard.

“This refrigerated Ute will certainly help us to navigate the increase locally.”

Foodbank SA chief executive Greg Pattinson said the support provided by the Motor Dealers of South Australia would ensure Foodbank SA could get more food to more people in need across the state.

“This is more than a mere donation – it is a great example of the business community demonstrating their commitment to SA, having a true impact where it is needed the most,” Mr Pattinson said.

“These vehicles will have a positive long-term impact on the food security in this state, helping us toward our vision of ending hunger.”

People struggling to put food on the table and in need of assistance can call Foodbank on 8723 0287 to find out how to access help.