The One Box’s new Impact Report, Fresh Food as a Foundation for Food Security, produced in partnership with Monash Business School, presents powerful evidence that The One Box food security program delivers far more than fresh produce. Weekly boxes provide families with stability, confidence and dignity while strengthening community connections.
More than a food relief program, The One Box fosters consistent access to fresh produce and pathways to broader support – laying the foundation for lasting food security.
Why Food Security Matters Now More Than Ever
Food relief offers a vital lifeline for families in crisis. But on its own, it’s a short-term solution. True food security goes beyond having food on the table. It means being able to consistently meet food needs with dignity, stability and choice.
Food-secure households experience:
- Confidence in knowing where their next meal is coming from
- Connections with supportive networks that reduce isolation and stigma
- Nutritional literacy that empowers healthier decisions for children and adults
- Mental wellbeing through stability and reduced stress
- Financial breathing room to redirect funds toward other essentials
The One Box helps bridge that gap by delivering fresh, high-quality fruit, vegetables and bread every week. Families move from living in crisis to planning ahead. The predictability of weekly deliveries, the friendly face of a school hub leader, and the reassurance of consistent support all work together to reduce anxiety, restore dignity, and lay the foundation for long-term food security.
Evidence-based results from Monash Business School
Independent research conducted by Monash Business School’s Department of Accounting highlights how The One Box’s model provides lasting benefits beyond nutrition.
Key findings from 2024:
- Wellbeing index grew from 54.6% → 78.9%
- Sense of community connection increased from 40% → 66.7%
- Satisfaction with living standards rose from 6.9% → 58.6%
- Every $1 donated provides almost $2 worth of fresh food to families in need
The latest Impact Report, Fresh Food as a Foundation for Food Security offers a deeper analysis of the findings.
Hear from the families
“It improves all our well-being, what the kids eat, and what they eat helps their well-being and their schooling, because they can think and do schoolwork properly and sleep better. So it has a huge impact. Massive.” – Beneficiary
“The kids are a lot better compared to when we started The One Box about three years ago. They struggled to concentrate, and they were moody because they were hungry. We started to see the changes with The One Box; the kids were going to bed full and having a decent sleep and their attitude towards school and learning changed a lot.”- Beneficiary
“My confidence increased after I had some produce at home, so I could invite someone to my home. That made me feel happier. When I didn’t have much, I would isolate. I didn’t really feel confident to invite someone over when there was no food there.”- Beneficiary
“The children are a lot healthier and a lot more energetic. They’re not tired and run down and they’re able to be kids, rather than worry about what mum or dad are stressing about; whether we’re eating this week or not. It’s great that they see us happier.”- Beneficiary
Looking ahead: building food security together
With the support of our school partners, volunteers, corporate supporters and philanthropic donors, we’ve made a difference to many – but the need continues to grow. More than 70 schools, equating to over 1,000 families, remain on the waitlist for The One Box program.
With continued support and funding, The One Box can reach even more families nationwide, bringing dignity and fresh produce to those who need it most. Every $600 donation feeds a family for an entire year, turning generosity into tangible, lasting impact.
