Circumstances to inception

The Pantry was established in September 2020 when St Peter’s parishioners felt the need to establish a community outreach program, becoming a registered charity in 2021.

From meeting room to pantry

In May 2020 Councillor Cummings graciously gave a donation to allow the purchase of a small chest freezer and in July 2020 a parishioner’s franchise company donated a very large chest freezer. In June 2021 St Pete’s Pantry became an official charity receiving Deductible Gift Recipient status, allowing donations to be tax deductible.

Establishment to today

From serving those on a Monday, it became obvious there was a need to provide regular food, to the many more in the community who were vulnerable. In April 2020 bags of food were given to the people who came to the Monday Brekky Club, but soon after more vulnerable folk came, in need food assistance. The food initially was donated by the church parishioners. Today ‘The Pantry’ is kept busy two mornings a week giving out free food hampers to all in need who come forward.

Monday Brekky Club

The Pantry initially served those who were homeless and hungry and would come to the Parish Hall on a Monday for a breakfast of toast cereal with tea and coffee. The Monday Brekky Club operates morning 8.30 to 10.00am.

From serving the regulars on a Monday, it became obvious there was a need to provide regular food, to those who were vulnerable. In April 2021 bags of food were given to the people who came to the Monday Brekky Club, but soon after more and more people came asking for food hampers. The food initially was donated by the church parishioners, who generously dropped off food during the week.

List of services

Provide free food hampers to homeless, singles, couples and families, staple cupboard items as well as meat and freezer products

• Provide personal hygiene and household cleaning products
• Provide warm blankets during winter
• Provide local services information
• Provide free breakfast on Monday mornings
• Provide two community lunches each year

Emergency services

The Pantry provides emergency relief in the form of free food hampers, to the most vulnerable on the Bayside. The bags contain staple pantry items as well as frozen meat products and bread. The food is donated by community members and groups, as well as local businesses. It is topped up with food purchased by ‘The Pantry’ from local suppliers.