FREE Fruit Initiative

The Eaglehawk Community House are thrilled to announce the commencement of their FREE Fruit initiative to promote healthier eating habits within our community.

As part of this project, ECH will be providing FREE fresh, high-quality fruit to all visitors and volunteers, encouraging them to make better dietary choices.

Commencement of this project will be on Monday, December 1^st, 2025.

According to the 2019 Active Living Census, only 48% of Greater Bendigo residents meet the recommended daily intake of two servings of fruit (Healthy Heart of Victoria, 2019).

The main barriers to meeting fruit and vegetable consumption guidelines in Greater Bendigo include:

• Lack of time (32.2%)

• Personal preference or habits (27.0%)

• Cost (14.7%)

• Dietary or health restrictions (13.9%)

• Lack of awareness or agreement with healthy eating guidelines (11.8%) (Healthy Heart of Victoria, 2019).

  
  

Fruits are vital components of a balanced diet, supplying an extensive range of essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre that contribute to optimal health. Increased fruit intake is associated with various health benefits, including the prevention of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular illness, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, incorporating more fruits into daily dietary habits can aid in effective weight management and contribute positively to overall well-being and nutritional status.

By improving access to fresh produce, the ECH aims to improve overall health outcomes. This improvement may subsequently contribute to a reduction in antibiotic usage and a decrease in antibiotic resistance associated with improved nutritional practices.

This initiative wouldn't be possible without the sponsorship and support of Pam Milley and UFS Pharmacies.