Distribution of left-over food wins award for Ronni
The founder of Ozharvest, an organisation which distributes left-over food from events to the needy has been made New South Wales Local Hero of 2009.The award is a lead-up to the Australian of the Year Award .
Ronni Kahn
57-yr-old Ronni Kahn told J-Wire: “In 2004 I was distressed to witness the amount of food being thrown out following events in which I had been involved with the planning. So I decided to do something about it.”
Kahn, who lives in the Sydney suburb of Bronte, founded Ozharvest. A spokeswoman for Department of Immigration and Citizenship said: “She was instrumental in changing legislation in four states to protect donors from any liability when supplying leftover food….essential to allow the OzHarvest concept to work.”
From its humble beginnings in 2004, OzHarvest today delivers more than 110,000 meals a month to 163 charities in Sydney, Canberra and Wollongong…and plans to go national next year.
The DIAC spokeswoman added: “Our Local Heroes are extraordinary individuals whose passion and energy strengthen our community and encapsulate what it means to be Australian.”
South African-born Kahn who immigrated to Australia 1n 1988 from Israel, told J-Wire: “I feel humbled, overwhelmed and thrilled to have been chosen as the NSW Local Hero.
In January, 2010, the National Local Hero will be announced.
Jon Dee (NSW Australian of the Year 2010), Lyn Thorpe (NSW Senior Australian of the Year 2010), NSW Deputy Premier Carmel Tebbutt MP, Ronni Kahn (NSW Local Hero 2010), Jack Manning Bancroft (NSW Young Australian of the Year 2010)
Mazeltov Ronni!
What a wonderful achievement and inspiration of Tikun Olam to us all.
Keep up the great work.
The Chavers of the King David School Class of 69 are very proud of you!