Parramatta. GPT on a mission

Global property giant, GPT Group, which has bought a long wheel-base refrigerated van for Parramatta Mission as part of its food recovery program, will deliver products from outlets in its Rouse Hill Shopping Centre to the Mission for its outreach programs. It is part of the group's moves to become more engaged with community needs. The Mission's target is to offer up to one million meals per year as part of the Uniting Church-established outreach program that has been running for 40 years. The decision to take on the food recovery program was made two years ago, as part of attempts to cut waste, according to Rosemary Kirkby, GPT's head of communities. GPT also provided $60,000 for the van’s operating costs. The program, which is in a pilot phase with just five retailers, will be rolled out across more of the 12 shopping centres GPT manages. More retailers will be added if it proves successful.