One Meal, a prominent food relief organisation in Sydney, is in urgent need of a new warehouse following the announcement of its upcoming eviction from a key operational site by November. The existing rent-free agreement on the Northern Beaches, which has lasted three years, will come to an end after the St Vincent de Paul Society NSW confirmed the sale of the facility.
Chairman Robert McLachlan expressed gratitude for their partnership with St Vincent de Paul yet acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by rising living costs. He described the situation as an internal struggle and noted the critical role the Brookvale location has played in scaling One Meal’s operations from less than 200,000 meals to over one million.
The organisation received formal notice regarding the need for vacating their current premises, with both charities recognising that the partnership was temporary and mutually beneficial. McLachlan estimated that One Meal has contributed approximately $350,000 annually in food and services to St Vincent de Paul for free.
As a potential alternative, One Meal has been offered a location in Hornsby. However, uncertainty over a permanent site raises concerns among local volunteers, alongside significant financial obstacles that complicate securing suitable real estate. These challenges could potentially limit One Meal’s capacity to meet the growing demand for its services, prompting McLachlan to reflect on the emotional impact of not being able to support all those in need during difficult economic times.
One Meal was established in December 2014 when a group of friends initiated a one-off project to provide Christmas meals to those in need. Since then, it has expanded its reach, currently providing nearly 1,900 meal equivalents weekly across five areas in Greater Sydney. Its operations rely on 1,200 volunteers who prepare, transport, and deliver meals, as well as assist in various administrative roles.
The charity also collaborates with primary schools, corporate groups, and individuals with disabilities to enhance its services, alongside a partnership with Nagi Maehashi of RecipeTin Eats for meal distribution across the city. Despite the current logistical hurdles, One Meal remains optimistic about securing a new site, underscoring its dedication to the community and the critical humanitarian effort it supports.
For those interested in assisting, volunteering, or accessing its services, more information is available on the One Meal website.