A new initiative by Glen Innes Anglican Church is aiming to provide more than just food — it’s offering connection, care, and community through its recently launched Community Food Pantry.
Open to all with no eligibility criteria, the pantry allows anyone in need to access groceries at a significantly reduced cost. For just $20, visitors can fill a reusable shopping bag with non-perishable items such as rice, flour, pasta, canned vegetables, tea, coffee, and even essential household goods like toothpaste and cleaning products.
The initiative is made possible through a partnership with Anglicare, whose generosity enables the food to be purchased and transported at a fraction of retail prices.
According to Rev. David Robinson, minister at Glen Innes Anglican Church, the aim is simple: to care for people materially, socially, and spiritually.
“Those who want food can simply turn up and let us know they are there,” said Rev. Robinson. “We then invite people one at a time to come and select their groceries. While they wait, volunteers are ready with a cuppa and a friendly chat — even a prayer if someone would like it.”
The atmosphere is intended to be warm and welcoming, and the church hopes it becomes a source of genuine support for the community. “We’ve seen similar programs succeed, like in Boggabri, where 40 people regularly attend. Who knows whether we’ll get to that number? But we’re having a go because we believe God wants us to care for others.”
The pantry’s first day saw five bags packed for appreciative visitors, with feedback already pointing to the difference it’s making. While the church has enough volunteers for now, Rev. Robinson encourages the broader community to help spread the word. “Right now, the best way people can help is by letting others know the pantry is here for them,” he said.
The Community Pantry is open on set days each month, with the next day being 26 May.
For more information, call Anglicare on 02 6701 8200 or visit anglicare.org.au/NENW
