Pantry seeks personal care supplies

THE Linton Pantry is thriving at the town’s old Shire Offices, always full of fresh and non-perishable food that community members can pick up if they’re ever in need of supplies.

However, Linton and District Progress Association president Kylie Turville said there’s one essential area that could do with more stock.

“After the most recent lockdown, we have had a really great response and a good turnover of food items, but we are in need of some of the more expensive personal care supplies and toiletries,” she said.

“We have plenty of soap, but need more deodorant, shampoo and conditioner, washing detergent, and women’s period items.

“Women will often do without these things, or go without something else to pay for hygiene products.”

Since the Pantry launched 15 months ago, it has been well supported and is still gaining momentum with its offerings.

Recently, a couple have been dropping off leftover fresh bakery bread. Community members have appreciated having the loaves close by when their cupboards were bare, but shops were closed.

When using the Pantry, residents are encouraged to make a small donation for the produce or supplies they take home, if they can afford to do so.

These funds are injected back into Linton by the LDPA, to support community projects like the community gardens or revitalisation works at the local reserve.

Ms Turville said the Association constantly receives positive feedback about the Pantry initiative.

“People love the accessibility of it, having it in the centre of town, and it’s a spot where it’s not unusual for people to go in, so they feel comfortable to do so,” she said.

Fresh produce swaps are expected to return to the Linton Pantry in spring.