Meals on Wheels Pine Rivers and District Inc Business Manager Wendy Smith said the charity had partnered with The Mini Farm Project to convert a one-acre site into a working market garden to supply produce for the meals at no cost.

“We deliver between 43,000 and 47,000 meals a year and being able to grow our own fruit and vegetables on this farm will reduce purchasing costs by up to $65,000 a year,” Mrs Smith said.

“Thanks to the RACQ Foundation grant we’ve already harvested our first crop and were able to buy irrigation, tools and equipment, seeding rolls for planting, composters and a washing machine to spin the greens.”

RACQ Foundation spokesperson Lucinda Ross said the organisation was proud to support the amazing work Meals on Wheels was doing in the Pine Rivers community.

“Eating a healthy, balanced diet is so important to the people that receive these meals and now they know that the fruit and vegetables they receive have been grown locally and sustainably,” Ms Ross said.

“This year, we extended the eligibility to make it possible for organisations affected by COVID-19, like Meals on Wheels Pine Rivers and District, to access grants just like those impacted by natural disasters.

“Whether it’s a flood, drought or a pandemic – we’re here to help Queenslanders and their communities get back on their feet.”

More information about the RACQ Foundation could be found here.