Mrs Harrison-Shaw was awarded a CoAct Local Heroes Award in Canberra on Tuesday by CoAct ambassador, Olympic and World Champion Matthew Cowdrey.

Also present were Federal MPs Stephen Jones and Sharon Bird as well as a representative from the Access Community Group which nominated her for the recognition.

Access Community Group is a a member of CoAct and the presentation was made at a ceremony at Parliament House, Canberra.

The annual awards recognise recipients people from across Australia who provide inspiration, have shown great personal

achievements or created innovations for Australians who need a road back into the workplace and a brighter future.

CoAct members and delegates from the United Nations and OECD were also present and heard how Mrs Harrison-Shaw founded Need A Feed in 2012.

Since then she has worked in partnership with other organisations to connect with families who need food support. 

Need A Feed holds events throughout the year raising funds to supply food to hundreds of people on any one day.

The program also helps with emergency housing, clothing, furniture, fuel vouchers and assists in work programs.

‘‘I have put my heart and soul into Need a Feed so it is an absolute honour to be recognised as a local hero,’’ Mrs Harrison-Shaw said. ‘‘I am looking forward to growing our partnerships to expand our reach therefore supporting more families in need.’’

Chief Executive Officer of Access Community Group, Larissa Daniel said the organisation nominated Mrs Harrison-Shaw because of her  relentless pursuit to bring business, community services and the community together for the benefit of those in need.

Ms Daniel described her work as inspirational.

‘‘Shaz works really hard across the entire region to make sure her program is available to all,’’ she said.

‘‘We love working with the Need a Feed crew, and feel Shaz deserves recognition for her tireless efforts.’’

CoAct chief executive Matt Little said Mrs Harrison-Shaw’s achievements were a great example of what can be achieved when organisations collaborate for the greater good and benefit of the whole community.

‘‘At CoAct, we deliver opportunities for everyday Australians regardless of disadvantage,’’ Mr Little said.

‘‘Our mission is to create social and economic opportunities for all Australians. All of the Local Heroes recognised today are perfect examples of people and organisations who, despite some difficulties, worked hard to achieve their goals and provide a role model for others.’’