FEEDing the Community: Empowering Youth, Growing Food Security

7 Mar 2025

YMCLC’s FEED Project engages young people in building food security and resilience in Yarrawonga

The Yarrawonga Mulwala Community & Learning Centre (YMCLC) is set to make a lasting impact with its newly funded FEED (Food, Engagement, Education, Distribution) Project, an initiative designed to empower young people while strengthening food security in the region. The project is funded through the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Community Food Relief Grant.

“This project is about so much more than just food,” said Julie-Anne Clarke, Executive Officer of YMCLC. “It’s about giving young people the skills, confidence, and sense of purpose that comes with growing, preparing, and sharing food with those who need it most.”

YMCLC is well positioned to lead this initiative, having hosted Moira Foodshare since 2022 and providing essential food relief to up to 400 people each month. Through the FEED Project, young people will take an active role in growing fresh produce, distributing food, and participating in skill-building workshops that promote sustainability and social responsibility.

“Our aim is to not only expand the community garden and increase fresh food production but also to foster real community engagement,” Julie-Anne explained. “By involving youth in every step—from planning and cultivation to food distribution—we’re creating a program that builds resilience while providing real-world skills.”

Key goals of the FEED Project include:
✅ Expanding the community garden to grow more fresh, seasonal produce.
✅ Engaging young people in planning, cultivating, and distributing food.
✅ Increasing volunteer participation through opportunities in the garden and food share operations.
✅ Raising awareness and fostering resilience through education and skill-building workshops.
✅ Developing a youth-led food initiative to strengthen and sustain food security efforts in Yarrawonga.

“With rising living costs, food security is a growing concern for many in our community,” said Julie-Anne. “This funding allows us to take action, build connections, and ensure that no one in our community goes without.”

The FEED Project is set to create long-term benefits for the Yarrawonga community—empowering youth, strengthening local food systems, and ensuring a more resilient future.