By Danielle Kutchel
A food relief initiative in Cranbourne is providing a source of refuge, support and hope for struggling Casey families.
Rain, hail or shine, volunteers at Gethsemane Church and Charity are on hand to provide free food relief for those in need, with a plentiful supply of fresh fruit and vegetables, breads, frozen food, eggs and treats for children, so no one in Casey has to go hungry.
Some of the volunteers are themselves former clients of the food pantry, so they know what it’s like to be in a client’s shoes.
Pastor Kerrigan La-Brooy said the pantry’s customers had increased dramatically during the pandemic.
They’re now feeding around 300 mouths a day – 300 stomachs that may otherwise be empty.
“We’re seeing people who wouldn’t normally come but because they lose their job or income, they want temporary relief,” he explained.
“Lots of refugees and asylum seekers, a lot of single mums and people escaping domestic abuse.”
But he said it’s not just about the food; it’s about creating that sense of inclusion and community.
“It’s being a friend. It’s talking to them and saying, ‘it’s alright’,” he said.
Patricia, a widow, has been visiting the pantry to collect food for herself and her brother, who is unwell with cancer.
“It helps in giving us a lot of things we need that we probably wouldn’t have it if wasn’t here,” she said.
While it can be tough to approach someone at your lowest moment, she recommended that people in need get in touch with Gethsemane.
“There’s so much stuff here, it’s such a help to everyone.”
It’s not just clients who feel welcomed and included at Gethsemane.
The church has provided a home for volunteers too, a place where they can feel valued and give back to their fellow man.
Volunteer Steph started working at the food pantry in 2018 after originally visiting as a client.
She said the service had “100 per cent saved” her family – so much so that she knew she wanted to give back as a volunteer.
“I love it, I can’t express it to you. There’s a peace that comes with it. It’s something on another level,” she said.
The single mother said she brings her young children along too, to show them the importance of “giving into the community”.
Her colleague Mila has also been volunteering at the pantry for three years, after retiring from her full time job.
She said working at Gethsemane has been a rewarding experience, and has helped her through some tough times including the loss of her son.
“Sometimes I go to bed and count how many more hours until I get here,” she said.
“I love everything about being here.”
For more information or to get in touch with the food pantry, visit www.gethsemane.com.au/charity/#foodPantry
