Supermarket chain, Coles, has been presented with Foodbank's Patron's Award, recognising its ten year partnership with the food relief organisation.
The Governor-General Quentin Bryce presented the award over the weekend at an event at Admiralty House, attended by 80 of Foodbank's supporters.
The Patron's Award is presented to a company that has demonstrated unrivalled commitment over time to furthering Foodbank's objectives, and has acted as a role model to other organisations.
Over the course of its ten year relationship with the organisation, Coles has contributed to 10 million meals beginf generated for Australians in need. In 2012 alone, Coles donated 1.26kg of food and groceries.
Foodbank Australia’s chairman, Enzo Allara said "As a Foodbank partner, Coles is continually surpassing its commitment to provide food donations, ensuring that food rescue is integrated into its supply management procedures and always looking out for new ways it can support Foodbank’s efforts.
"Coles is a committed partner in our goal to end hunger in Australia and for that we would like to recognise and thank them for their tireless efforts over the last ten years," he said.
Foodbank is a non-denominational, non-profit, national organisation with distribution centres in all states, the Northern Territory and eight regional centres.
The organisation is endorsed by the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) as the food industry's charity partner, and in 2012, donated 24 million kilograms of food, creating 32 million meals.