IVECO, the global commercial vehicle brand of the Iveco Group, has thrown its support behind Australia’s leading food rescue operation, OzHarvest, in an agreement that will see IVECO directly contribute to the supply of 200,000 meals to people in need, through the charity’s Food Rescue program.

Along with feeding many hungry bellies, as part of the process an amazing 100,000kg of nutritious food will be saved from landfill and 660,000kg of greenhouse gas emissions prevented, according to data provided by OzHarvest. 

Founded in 2004 by social entrepreneur, Ronni Kahn AO, OzHarvest has made a significant contribution to alleviate hunger among vulnerable Australians ever since, following its four operational pillars: rescue, educate, advocate and innovate.

Today, OzHarvest serves 1,900 charities across Australia, including homelessness services, school breakfasts programs, domestic violence refuges, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander programs and community food pantries; each servicing community members facing food insecurity.

Delivery vehicles play a major role in distributing the rescued food to charities around the country, and to assist, OzHarvest currently operate 16 Daily vans. As part of the latest partnership, IVECO will also provide road support for these vehicles.

With their car-like driving environment, generous volume capacities, Euro6 engines, 8-speed fully automatic transmission and abundance of safety features, the IVECO Daily is comfortable, safe and easy to drive for their team of drivers who are on the road rescuing and delivering food every day.

OzHarvest National Partnerships Manager, Lisa Dainty, said the support from IVECO was well received and vital in allowing the charity to continue its work.

“Right now, due to the rising cost of living, the demand for food relief is the highest we've experienced. Throughout our network of 1,900 charities, 73 per cent have reported an increase in demand in the last six months, more people than ever need our help,” Mrs Dainty said. 

“OzHarvest relies on the generous support from like-minded partners – we welcome the IVECO partnership and look forward to working closely together to make sure we get good food to those who need it most.

“OzHarvest vans cover thousands of kilometers every week collecting and distributing food, and are critical to the work we do, so having IVECO support us to manage the fleet and have it operating at its best is fantastic.”

Since its inception, Iveco Group has been driven by a determination to make a positive impact on the world and create long-term value for all its stakeholders. As a corporate citizen, Iveco Group believes in making a positive contribution to society in its countries of operation, including at community level through specific programs that also leverage the involvement of its local brand team worldwide. 

In commenting on the partnership, IVECO ANZ Managing Director, Michael May, said IVECO first entered into partnership with OzHarvest in 2016, and was extremely pleased to be helping the organisation to continue its vital work.

“OzHarvest plays such an important role in the community, and with budgetary stress affecting many Australians, the charity’s work is now more important than ever,” Mr May said.

“IVECO is delighted to be contributing to OzHarvest’s programs, and we’re excited to explore other opportunities between our two organisations in the coming months along our joint goals, including our shared sustainability values and desire to reduce inequality and protect diversity and vulnerable groups.”