THE PANTRY BOX CHALLENGE 2025 | "7 Days Without Food Makes One Weak"

Food insecurity isn’t just a statistic, it’s a devastating reality for families, individuals, and children in our state. Right now, 1 in 6 Australian children and 1 in 8 adults are living below the poverty line. That means thousands of kids are starting their day hungry, going to school without lunch, and going to bed without enough to eat, while their parents and carers are also quietly going without, skipping meals so their children can eat first.

The effects of poverty on children last far beyond an empty stomach. Hunger impacts their ability to concentrate at school, their physical growth, and their emotional wellbeing. Without proper nutrition, children struggle to learn, thrive, and dream about the future. Poverty robs them not only of food today, but of opportunity tomorrow.

At Bridge Builders Inc., we believe food is not a privilege, it is a basic human right. Yet every week, we see families forced to make impossible choices: pay rent or buy food, fill the car with petrol or fill their children’s lunchboxes. That’s why we provide Pantry Boxes and Backpacks filled with staple items to help families survive. It’s a lifeline, but it’s not enough.

My daughter and I have accepted the challenge! For 7 days we will live on the same limited food that is provided to families facing poverty. 

Our goal is to gain a better appreciation for what so many in our community endure every day! And of course, to raise money for Bridge Builders to extend the amazing work they do in our community.