Eat Up: Make a Difference, Make a Sandwich.
Tuesday lunchtime is when student volunteers come together in the Food Tech kitchen at Woodleigh to chat, laugh and make hundreds of sandwiches.
We know that food insecurity is significant across Australia, particularly at the end of each week when family resources are most stretched. Some of our littlest kids are 'too hungry to learn,' says Eat Up Founder Lyndon Galea. Whether struggling to focus, experiencing lethargy, or being unusually quiet, Lyndon points out the reality of children's basic needs if they are to thrive.
What began as a few extra sandwiches made at the kitchen table has become a widespread network of over 15,000 volunteers. Woodleigh is a part of that network; students from Years 7–12 volunteer to gather, prepare and pack sandwiches. For Hazel and Pippa, two Year 12 students who have been part of Eat Up since Year 7, the experience has been significant. 'Eat Up has created an environment we love being part of,' Hazel says. 'it’s a place where everyone can come together, work toward a common goal and build connections across year levels and friendship groups.'
Pippa and Hazel have grown into Leaders of the program, mentoring younger students and ensuring Eat Up continues. For many years now, Woodleigh’s parent coordinator, Stuart Jefferies, has been a quiet force behind the organisation and driving – so much driving! - for Eat Up. As Stuart hands his role to Linda Crittenden this year, we are grateful for his legacy.
Eat Up reaches over 900 schools and tens of thousands of children, but the need continues to grow, presenting an ongoing challenge. As Hazel, Pippa, and other senior students prepare to graduate, they invite others to continue the work. Now could be the time if you’ve ever wanted to make a difference—or a sandwich?
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