Barossa-based family winery, Yalumba, has reached the midpoint of its goal to raise money for building ‘Forage Built Calyx pods’.
In 2020, Yalumba launched its Homefullness Grenache 2017, with 50 per cent of sales from each pack going to Forage Built, the company behind the Calyx pods.
These pods represent an innovative solution to the problem of homelessness – providing small, transportable, and eco-friendly dwellings which provide safe spaces for people to live in dignity.
Yalumba has the aim of raising $90,000, which would fully fund the construction of at least one of these pods.
Yalumba’s Senior Winemaker, Sam Wigan, said: “We have been thrilled with the support from the community in buying sharing and enjoying our Grenache for this cause.”
Forage Built is an initiative from the Forage Supply Company, a Barossa Valley food and bottle shop that showcases sustainably created local produce.
“We have had a longstanding relationship with Scott and Justin at Forage Supply Co., as well as a long term partnership with the Hutt St Centre,” Wigan said.
“When we heard about the Forage Built initiative, we were excited to get on board and help raise the necessary funds.”
The Calyx pods have been designed in consultation with homeless people, including ‘little luxuries that others take for granted.’ The first prototype was unveiled last May, during the ‘Tasting Australia’ Festival in Adelaide.
Scott Rogasch, from the Forage Supply Co., expressed his delight at the support from Yalumba.
“Since the launch of this project last year, we have been working hard with our suppliers to reduce the cost of the pods and raise as much awareness and valuable funds to start the next build,” said Rogasch.
“Housing is not going to solve homelessness, community will, and projects like this wouldn’t be possible without our amazing partners and supporters like Yalumba.”
The wine itself is described as ‘perfect for the warmer months’, and as having flavours of ‘spice, cherry and raspberry.’
Homefullness Grenache 2017 retails for $120 per pack of 12, and is available to purchase from the Yalumba Website.