In rural and regional communities across Australia, the day starts early. Long commutes, demanding farm chores, and the compounding pressures of the cost-of-living crisis mean many children head to school on an empty stomach. You cannot expect a tractor to run without fuel, and we certainly cannot expect our kids to learn on empty.
That is why the Brekkie in a Bag initiative was built, a simple, practical response that meets rural families where they are. By delivering easy, nutritious breakfast supplies straight into country classrooms, the program ensures no student is left behind before the first bell rings.
To date, the program is supporting 28 schools, nourishing 913 students, and has delivered over 182,600 meals directly to the heart of our farming regions. But behind those numbers are real people whose mornings are transformed:
• For the Children: A belly full of healthy food changes everything. Instead of fighting fatigue or brain fog, kids get a level playing field. Nutritious food boosts concentration, improves mood, and restores the confidence students need to participate fully, learn, and thrive alongside their peers.
• For School Staff: Teachers and principals know all too well how hunger impacts the classroom. When students are nourished, teachers see an immediate shift: calmer classrooms, sharper focus, and better behavioural outcomes. It allows staff to focus on what they do best, educating, rather than managing the fallout of empty stomachs.
• For Families: Rural parents are exceptionally resourceful, but stretching the family budget in tough times is an overwhelming burden. Brekkie in a Bag provides tangible relief to household budgets and takes the stress out of hectic morning routines. Knowing their children have access to a healthy breakfast gives parents immense peace of mind.
Brekkie in a Bag is more than just food; it is about dignity, community care, and giving country kids the bright start they deserve. Every breakfast served is a message to our regional communities that they are seen, supported, and never alone.
Leaving a legacy to help support Australian Farmers
Australian farmers make up the 2% of the population providing the other 98% with their food but face constant challenges including isolation, natural disasters and relentless product price fluctuations.
This is where Aussie Helpers steps in to support farmers, their families, and communities during hard times with individualised and personalised support including financial, mental health and targeted programs.
If you are interested in supporting Australian farming leaving a Gift in your Will to Aussie Helpers is a simple and easy way.•
To start you can simply call us on 1300 665 232 or visit our website www.aussiehelpers.org.au – How you can Help – Gift in Will.
There’s no pressure or obligation, just a genuine thank you for considering a way to make a lasting impact.
The history of Aussie Helpers starts back in 2002 when it was established by Brian and Nerida Egan, who were both awarded Orders of Australia medals in 2020 for their work to farming communities.Â
You can read through our history at your leisure by visiting our website at any time https://aussiehelpers.org.au/about/#our-history
The impact Aussie Helpers includes over 20,000 farmers helped with 250,000 litres of water supplied, $500,000 worth of gift cards donated and 800 tonnes of livestock feed.Â
However the real impact are the genuine stories, the tears, the bravery, the resilience, the hard work, the quiet achievements of farmers, their families and their communities.
If you would like to read some of the stories, we have a wide range on our website https://aussiehelpers.org.au/latest-news-farmers-stories/
We would also be delighted to chat at any time if you would like to learn more about what is currently happening in the farming community or share your own stories or offer your support.
