Social Traders certification recognises FoodShare as a genuine social enterprise that exists to deliver measurable community impact. This independent verification confirms that our Community Pantry program directly advances our social purpose of improving food security across our region, ensuring community benefit is prioritised over private gain.

For our partners, supporters and food relief recipients, certification provides confidence that FoodShare meets nationally recognised standards for governance, transparency and social impact. It also strengthens our ability to participate in social procurement opportunities, collaborate with like-minded organisations, and reinvest revenue back into programs that support people experiencing hardship. Most importantly, certification for our social enterprise model reinforces our
commitment to operating with integrity, accountability and that community impact is at the centre of everything we do.

This commitment is reinforced by independent research. A 2026 Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis undertaken by Think Impact found that FoodShare’s Community Pantry generates $8.60 in social and economic value for every $1 invested. When the value of donated food, volunteer time and other in-kind contributions is included, the total return increases to $61.50 for every $1 invested.

These findings demonstrate that FoodShare’s certified social enterprise model delivers measurable outcomes for the community while ensuring every dollar invested creates lasting social value for people experiencing food insecurity.