Nourish Northern Rivers

During the recent catastrophic flooding in the Northern Rivers our service became aware that access to affordable, healthy food and ways to cook it were severely compromised in much of the region. Thousands were without homes, communication, electricity and cooking equipment, safe and storable produce, and ways to prepare it. In isolated and smaller rural localities, it was up to 2 weeks before they could leave their properties to purchase foods and goods. Months later families are living in houses without fridges and cooking equipment. The trauma of past flooding is causing people to panic buy every time there is a rain event predicted.

This project aims to teach people how to prepare and plan for future events by sourcing a kit of healthy long storage produce with recipes and tips included that require minimal or no cooking equipment.

Part of the strategy includes running half day workshops in each community that develops skills and knowledge in the use of the kits as well as post disaster supports. The workshops also provide tips on: Healthy eating, physical activity, capacity and connection building in the local community and stress management.

Resources are distributed post the workshop to support the content presented and where possible, we provide ingredients to make at least one dish with an accompanying menu card.

This event is supported by the Commonwealth and NSW State Government through the Ballina Shire Council Community Recovery Program.