By Alesha Capone
A Point Cook church has started a food bank to help community members who are doing it tough.
The Cross Culture Church of Christ Point Cook held its first Point Cook Food Bank pick-up for two hours on Sunday, and is planning to hold regular pick-ups into the future.
Food suppliers donated a variety of dry food, frozen and fresh produce to Sunday’s event.
Food Bank core team member Elaine Dunstone said the idea for the food bank came about during Victoria’s first pandemic lockdown, when the church’s senior pastor – Pastor Mike – “felt a real burden on his heart” and a desire to help people losing their jobs.
Ms Dunstone said the volunteers organising the Point Cook Food Bank felt “that we are helping to meet a deep need in the community”.
“The response so far from the wider community has been so encouraging,” she said.
“To those of you who want to help in some way, wonderful.
“We would ask you: Please be patient with us. Give us a few Sundays to get the food bank running really smoothly.
“When that’s done, yes, we’ll be more ready to plan training of volunteers from the wider community.”
People seeking help from the food bank can visit www.facebook.com/pointcookfoodbank for details, or send the page a private message if needed.
To donate to the Point Cook Food Bank, see crossculturepointcook.net.au/give/ for and click on “FOR MISSION OR POINT COOK PANTRY FUND”.
