Pennant employees are entitled to two paid days of volunteering leave each year. Volunteering is a powerful force for positive change, and the scheme supports charities, local communities, and individuals in need. It not only benefits others but also enriches our staff by fostering connections, enhancing skills, and promoting well-being.
FORaMEAL, a project by the Rotary Club of Canterbury, provides emergency meals to those affected by natural and other disasters. Each year, they distribute meals free of charge to vulnerable individuals and families worldwide.
During the Stage 4 COVID-19 restrictions in Melbourne, they redirected part of their FORaMEAL efforts to support the most vulnerable locals, providing over 200,000 meals. In June 2024, an additional 110,000 meals were provided to Food Bank Victoria for distribution by their front-line charity partners to help feed and meet the nutritional needs of many facing financial difficulties due to the current cost of living increases.
On August 22, 2024, a Pennant Melbourne team of four decided to lend a helping hand, and use of their two days volunteering leave to support FORaMEal. Colleagues arrived at Camberwell Grammar School at 2:00 PM to set up production lines. Each line included lentils, oats, rice, and sachets of essential vitamins and minerals. Their task was to fill the packs, weigh and heat seal them, and then box them up. Each pack provides a balanced and nutritious meal for 5-6 people! By 3:00 PM, several production lines were in full swing, and by 6:00 PM, the truck was loaded with over 20,000 meals.
One of our Pennant colleagues, Pamala Knyvett shared, “This was an amazing opportunity to help those in need, and I am looking forward to being involved again. I really enjoyed being part of this activity and appreciated how much could be achieved when everybody works together. Sharing this experience with my Melbourne colleagues was also very special.”
Together, we can make a difference!
