Pantry gets a supply of cheer

AHEAD of Christmas, the Linton Community Food Pantry has received a large donation of staple items from the Country Women’s Association Scarsdale branch.

But as the season gets busier in the lead-up to 25 December, and demand grows with cost-of-living pressures, some products are running low and pantry volunteers are seeking particular essentials to re-stock.

“We need things such as coffee and sauces, dishwashing detergent and shampoo,” Linton Community Incorporated member Kylie Turville said.

“Coming up to Christmas when it is so expensive, and everyone’s still got bills, we fully expect an influx over the next few weeks and we’re here to support those families.

“People are spending what they can at the supermarket on things like meat, and then coming to us for the staples such as pasta and rice, which we have plenty of.

“If anyone has decorations with a bit of Christmas cheer that people could decorate their table with, we would love to be able to provide those.

“It’s a hard time. Those who have kids want to make sure they’ve got good food for Christmas and have a good day, so we’re hoping we can help.”

The free service provided by the Linton Community Food Pantry is now helping residents within a 30-kilometre radius of the town.

“We’re getting people coming from Smythesdale, Skipton, Snake Valley, Dereel, Rokewood, all directions,” Ms Turville said.

Due to staffing, the pantry is only open on the weekends. There are plans to establish a fresh herb garden at the front of its base at Linton Community Hub.

“In the new year, we’re going to start approaching local businesses to see if we can get some support from a bakery, or a fruit and veggie shop, and perhaps get things at a discounted price,” Ms Turville said.

“Fresh fruit and veg is such an important thing.”

The pantry is not in need of any more donations of soup.