Major Donation Helping to End Hunger

Photo: Handover featuring AEA President Murray Forbes and Foodbank SA CEO Greg Pattinson.

The Automotive Exhibitors Association (AEA) has made a significant donation to one of South Australia’s most important charities, Foodbank SA.

As the State’s largest provider of food relief, Foodbank has historically maintained a fleet of 12 vehicles to support the ever-increasing demand for its services.

However, its fleet was ageing and in urgent need of upgrading to support both its expansion in rural areas – including a recent move to open in Alice Springs - and an overall increase in demand.

Foodbank SA has the largest geographical reach of any food relief charity in South Australia.

The AEA learned that Foodbank had an immediate need to increase its fleet to include an additional five 4 x 2 refrigerated vehicles, primarily for food collection and distribution.

“Now working with more than 694 charities and 550 school programs we need to ensure we are committed to mission to get the most food, to the most people in need, the most efficient way possible,” said Greg Pattinson, CEO, Foodbank SA.

The Motor Dealers of South Australia came on board to support the cause, with a financial commitment underwritten by AEA to fund five new 4×2 refrigerated vehicles, including branding of the vehicles.

This comprises:

• three of the donated vehicles located in Mount Gambier, Whyalla and Murray Bridge to support its regional operation

• two units stationed in metropolitan Adelaide.

The funds also enabled the purchase of a SUV to replace the current vehicle for the Operations Manager, who is responsible for maintaining food donor and procurement relationships. The old vehicle had passed the 400,000kms!

The vehicles all carry the branding “Donated by The Motor Dealers of South Australia.”

“The support provided by the Motor Dealers of SA will ensure that Foodbank SA can get more food to more people in need across the state,” said Greg.

“This is more than a mere donation –it is a great example of the business community demonstrating their commitment to SA, having a true impact where it is needed the most.

“These vehicles will have a positive long-term impact on the food security in this state. Helping us toward our vision of ending hunger.”

AEA was formed by a group of leading South Australian dealers and distributors in 1969 to provide South Australia with an international standard motor show.