Wollongong charity Need a Feed has been recognised as the best home based business in the Illawarra for the thousands of people it has helped during the last eight years and the thousands more it will help as the need for assistance grows during and after COVID-19.
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Since the business first started in 2012 Ms Harrison has persevered and demonstrated a drive and commitment to help as many people as possible in the Illawarra.
In the process it has expanded its support network by partnering with organisations such as Barnardo's, Wollongong City Council, Illawarra Womens' Health Centre, Jobfind, Police and many local businesses to form a network connecting over 30 services in the Illawarra.
It not only provides food and personal care products but helps people with other issues such as loneliness and isolation, general well being and mental health.
"Now more than ever we see and will continue to see a need for this type of business," the judges said.
"The passion Shaz has for the business and the intimacy and kindness she shows to the customers is remarkable".
In her application to the Illawarra Women In Business (IWIB) Awards Ms Harrison said Need A Feed operated with integrity and always strived for the most ethical practice possible.
She said it was important to be open minded and never judge. And that the business understands that circumstances in life can change suddenly and people can suddenly find themselves in a vulnerable situation.
Ms Harrison said she was so grateful for the award and thanked every volunteer as well as all those in the Illawarra who have helped Need A Feed help thousands of people during the last eight years.
"Doing what I love and being able to work from home has always been a bonus for me because it provides an opportunity for me to also spend time with my family and gives me a lot of flexibility," she said.
"At Need A Feed we provide food and connection for people who have been through the toughest of situations. We help them to find their feet and support them to move forward in a really positive way."
Ms Harrison said during the last eight years she has also learned so much from the people Need A Feed has helped.
"What I have found is the number one predictor of good mental health and true happiness is human connection," she said.
"And I believe Need A Feed provides this through the various programs we offer throughout the Illawarra.
"So please remember to be kind and understand that everyone really does have a story".
The judges from Better Business Accounting said it was a very competitive category with very little between the finalists.
Read more:
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- South 32 executive assistant Charlie Hook wins newest Illawarra Women In Business Award recognising the unsung heroes of many businesses
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
