This pantry was born in the midst of one of Melbourne’s tightest lockdowns during the Covid19 pandemic. The world felt huge and small all at the same time. Our radius had reduced to 5km, most of us were restricted to working from home, if we were lucky enough to still have a job. There was a feeling of isolation and helplessness.
So the Purches Free Pantry was created. The initial intent was to reduce landfill and help those in need gain access to food and resources. What bloomed out of this was something far greater. Community came together to provide initial donations to support those in need. As time went on donations were sought from supermarkets directly.
Since then, the donations from various businesses have ebbed and flowed but a steady supply of goods have been provided. The pantry offers our community a chance to socialise, a space to share homegrown or homemade produce, and a place feel cared for.
While we are currently a small team, we are looking for ways to grow. Our goal remains to reduce good food from heading to landfill. While we are currently serviced by one supermarket, we are hoping to expand in the near future. If you have yet to witness for yourself, you would be shocked at the amount of food that is discarded by the vast majority of businesses DAILY. If you can help us, please get in touch.