Food relief pantry to open in Bannockburn

A FOOD relief pantry in Bannockburn is to be established as part of a special fund created for the region.

Through its Golden Plains Fund, the Geelong Community Foundation has allocated $30,000 to start the Bannockburn Food Pantry.

Hesse Rural Health in partnership with YMCA will be provided the money to establish the pantry which will aim to offer accessible food relief for residents facing hardship.

It will also create a community space for residents to find support and connection.

The money will be used to support the pantry’s creation and a dedicated part-time coordinator role to help oversee volunteers.

It is expected the pantry will launch in early July and be open on Thursdays from 11am to 2pm.

YMCA Geelong chief executive officer Shona Eland said the money would help create a source of support for families.

“We are incredibly grateful for this support from the Geelong Community Foundation,” Eland said.

“The Bannockburn Food Pantry will provide a dignified and welcoming service for local people experiencing hardship, while also creating opportunities for connection and support.

“This funding allows us to establish the pantry on a sustainable footing, ensuring we can respond to increasing community need and work alongside Hesse Rural Health and local volunteers to make a positive impact.”

Geelong Community Foundation chief executive officer Amy Waters said the fund’s establishment reflects the foundation’s long-term support for the shire.

“The foundation has proudly supported projects and organisations delivering impact across Golden Plains for many years, and the establishment of the Golden Plains Fund represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen that support into the future,” Waters said.

“We know communities across Golden Plains are experiencing increasing pressures relating to cost of living, mental health and social connection, and we are committed to continuing to work alongside local organisations and communities to respond to those needs.

“As the fund grows, so too will our ability to invest in community-led initiatives that strengthen opportunity and wellbeing across the region.”

Volunteers are now being sought.

Donate to the fund at shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/golden-plains-fund