Food pantry opens

CCH manager Martyn Shaddick and CCH Centrelink agency worker Julie Holden are pictured with the new Food Pantry.

Castlemaine Community House has opened a Food Pantry to address an increasing demand for food relief in Mount Alexander Shire.


CCH manager Martyn Shaddick said over the past few years they had observed a growing number of individuals and families requiring food assistance.


“By launching the CCH Food Pantry, we aim to support the efforts of The Salvation Army and St Vincent de Paul, who have been serving the community for a long time,” he said.


The CCH Food Pantry operates from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 3pm.


CCH does not receive any funding to sustain the project, the organisation instead relies on cash donations to continue its operations.


“We kindly request the community’s support through monetary contributions, which will enable us to maintain and enhance the services provided,” Mr Shaddick said.


CCH office manager Kelsey Docherty said they were also grateful for donations of high-quality, non-perishable food and toiletry items.


“The cost of personal items continues to rise, creating challenges for many individuals and families,” Ms Docherty said.

These contributions will help ensure the pantry remains well stocked, allowing CCH to meet the diverse needs of the community.


No appointments are necessary to access the CCH Food Pantry. People can simply visit CCH at 30 Templeton St Castlemaine, where the friendly team will provide assistance and support.

Financial donations can be made through the CCH website at cch.org.au/food-pantry.

Additionally, produce donations are accepted at CCH between 9am and 3pm each day.