Food group aims to help those in need

HEATHCOTE Food Share has been providing food relief across the district for more than seven years.

HFS president Glen Cullimore said groceries were given to anyone who was in need.

“We provide fruit and vegetables, breads, pantry goods, frozen goods, usually including meats, and pre-cooked meals,” he said.

“We have many carers who either bring their clients in or get supplies for them.

“This includes people who cook for multiple aged men and people taking care of women and kids escaping domestic violence.

“We continued to operate right through the COVID period, and we were doing home deliveries to anyone isolating at home when no other organisations were open.”

Mr Cullimore said he was particularly grateful to all the volunteers who helped at this time, despite the potential health risks involved.

The food security group has operated from 78 High Street since October 2021, after moving from smaller premises next door.

With the relocation Mr Cullimore said the organisation were able to offer an expanded range of services.

“There’s a lot more space here, we were so cramped on the op shop side of things previously,” he said.

“Because it’s a house, we’ve got a washing machine, we’ve got the shower in the bathroom and a drier.”

Mr Cullimore said along with food, the applicants were also available for homeless people to use.

“They can have a shower, wash their clothes, be presentable,” he said. “We also provide cooking facilities so they can have a hot breakfast and meals during the day.”

Heathcote Food Share is 100 per cent volunteer run and based off donations, with proceeds from the op shop supporting the delivery of services.

“We are an independent organisation and are self-funded,” Mr Cullimore said.

Mr Cullimore also said the group was looking at additional funding options for support and seeking to increase the facilities on offer.

Heathcote Food Share can be contacted on 0411 158 071.