From beginnings as a paper-based voucher system in the early 1990s, to a fully digital platform launched in 2022 — we’re proud to celebrate a major milestone for the Give Where You Live Foundation’s Community Choice voucher program.
Over $400,000 in emergency relief vouchers (food and pharmacy) have been redeemed across the Geelong region since mid-2022 on the the voucher generation and redemption platform designed and managed by OK200
This technology platform provides real-time data insights ensuring our voucher program remains efficient and responsive to community needs. Inspired by the Community Grocer, Community Choice vouchers redeemed on the OK200 purpose-built platform, enable recipients to shop or dine at Community Choice merchants across the Geelong region.
The Community Choice Voucher Program provides;
- Fresh, accessible food options, primarily through Geelong Foodshare Social Supermarkets
- and the inclusion of local cafés support choice and dignity for people seeking assistance.
- Essential prescription medications through 20 local pharmacies from Drysdale to Bannockburn, Corio to Colac.
- Household items/material aid vouchers redeemed via The Junk Group.
Thanks to the work of more than 30 local community support agencies who distribute the vouchers, the Community Choice voucher program has become a modern, community-driven way to provide emergency support, when and where it’s needed most.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without incredible community donations and generous funders. Special thanks to our long-standing supporters the Percy Baxter Charitable Trust, more recent supporters, The Shine On Foundation, and in 2025, the Dawn Wade Foundation and Victorian Government Emergency Food Relief Grant.
The Give Where You Live Foundation now distributes approximately $200,000 annually through the Community Choice program, supporting well over 10,000 people each year.
A huge thank you to everyone who continues to make this program a success.