It is no secret that Vicki Clark and her husband Gordon are two people with big hearts for the community and helping those in need.

Ms Clark and her husband were former Mount Gambier residents who moved to Queensland 40 years ago.

Since moving back to Mount Gambier to retire last year, the couple has been volunteering at Foodbank as they are passionate about giving back to the community.

While they were living in Queensland, Ms Clark organised the collection of over 10,000 items for the Salvation Army over a 48-week period.

“I have always had a passion for supporting those who are less fortunate and anyone who might need a helping hand,” Ms Clark said.

Foodbank is a non-profit charitable organisation with a mission to end hunger.

They are the largest food relief organisation in South Australia, providing food relief for more than 135,000 Australians in need each month.

Ms Clark and her husband realised the need for extra groceries to support those who were less fortunate at Christmas, so in January Ms Clark asked 12 of her family and friends to collect one extra item with their grocery shopping.

The team collected a total of 500 items over the 48 weeks. The items weighed in at 250kg, which will provide approximately 500 meals to people in need.

Ms Clark said she was proud to support an organisation such as Foodbank, which relies on volunteers.

“The volunteers are amazing, it’s like a family,” she said.

“Everyone has the same goal, we’re there to help support the community.”

Ms Clark is currently collecting items for Foodbank for July next year for a mid-year ‘Christmas in July’ donation to provide for people in need during the winter months. She will be collecting items on a July to July basis as of next year.

“It would be amazing if we could get more support on there to help out Foodbank because it’s just an amazing organisation,” Ms Clark said.

“Even if we do not get many people on board, at least it’s given another voice to Foodbank and people can see what an amazing job they do.” Foodbank Limestone Coast Branch Manager Lynne Neshoda has kindly offered Ms Clark the Foodbank van to pick up the items from the houses of those who contribute.

“It can be a 50c can of baked beans,” Ms Clark said. “Every little bit helps.”

Ms Clark hopes to increase the collection next year and said anyone was welcome to jump on board by emailing vicgor04@yahoo.com.au.

Ms Clark has a list of non-perishable items that are needed the most.