Since the launch of its random acts of pizza campaign in July, pizza legends from Melrose Pizza have churned out more than 1200 meals to locals doing it tough, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down.
Partnering with Helping Hands, Tullamarine Community House, and Attwood Community House, Alexis Harris and her husband Russell Harris, along with the help of their dedicated team, have provided hot meals to individuals and families struggling with financial hardships and food insecurity.
The initiative came after a 2025 Food Insecurity Report by the Salvation Army revealed 85 per cent of Australians experienced food insecurity in the past year, with 69 per cent admitting affording food was one of their greatest challenges.
The report also found 56 per cent of Aussies had to skip meals because of financial stress and 23 per cent were forced to eat expired or spoiled food.
Tullamarine Community House Manager Cheryl Heildebrandt highlighted the reality of keeping up with food assistance demands.
“We receive numerous emergency food assistance requests each week, and we’re not a food relief agency so there is a real increase in the community for this type of support,” she said.
For many, the enjoyment of a takeaway meal has become a luxury which is far out of reach.
The campaign invites locals to purchase a $5 meal for an individual, or a $25 meal for a family, either in-store or online, with the goal of delivering 1500 hot meals to those in need by Friday 31 October.
Vouchers are distributed through the partnering charities, giving recipients the chance to enjoy a meal in Melrose Pizza’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Harris’ took over the longstanding, family-run business in November 2024. Coming from a social impact background, Mrs Harris said she always wanted to use the business for good, and the initiative was about more than just giving back to the community.
“When we took over Melrose Pizza, we knew from day one that we wanted to do more than just serve great pizzas,” she said.
“Through Random Acts of Pizza, we’re aiming to spark a movement – encouraging other local businesses to get involved and spread kindness through their own venues.”
The campaign has received warm praise from customers and community partners, earning Melrose Pizza a finalist spot in the Hume City Business Awards.
“The response has been overwhelmingly positive – from both our customers and the charities we’re working with,” Mrs Harris said.
“It has become something really special for us.”
The campaign has attracted attention beyond the local community since its launch, with the owners already talking about continuing the initiative in the years to come.
“We want to continue growing this initiative next year and beyond, and we hope it inspires other local businesses to join us in creating a culture of kindness and support in our city,” Mrs Harris said.
“For us, this isn’t just a campaign – it’s our way of giving back to the community that’s supported us since we took over Melrose Pizza.”
To show support, https://melrosepizza.com.au/.
