Since opening their doors to the Port Hedland community at the start of June, the ‘food bank’ style mini mart service operated by Bloodwood Tree has already helped support over 65 local families.
The service provides much needed support to local individuals and families struggling to put food on the table, heightened under the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Funded as part of BHP’s $50m Vital Resources Fund, the partnership between BHP and Bloodwood Tree saw the construction of the dedicated Mini Mart, the purchase and freight of food staples and its continued operations from Bloodwood Tree’s Main Administration Office, until December 2020.
Bloodwood Tree Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Howlett, said the service has been the difference between people having something to eat or going hungry.
“We have heard from clients that they have gone home and made a hearty evening meal. So they are making meals and it is making a difference,” Kelly said.
To ensure shelves are kept stocked, donations can be dropped to Bloodwood Tree at 19 Hamilton Road South Hedland.
Manager Communities, Chris Cottier, said the $50 million Vital Resources Fund was designed to support regional communities through the global COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are proud to partner with organisations like Bloodwood Tree who provide vital support to struggling families and individuals in Port Hedland,” Chris said.