Parramatta Community Pantry: A new beginning

When one client walked into the new Parramatta Community Pantry, they weren't just searching for groceries; they were looking for a way to make it through the week.

For them, a busy supermarket can be overwhelming. The noise, crowds and endless choices make it difficult to plan meals and shop with confidence. But at the Parramatta Community Pantry, they found something different.

Welcomed by the team onsite, the client received one-on-one support in a calm and caring environment. Together, they planned five nights of healthy dinners, snacks, fruit, vegetables, cereal and milk for around $40. Along the way, they talked about strategies for introducing new foods to the client's child, who experiences sensory challenges around eating.

At the end of the shop, overcome with relief, the client broke down in tears. Volunteer Serena gently embraced them, offering a reassuring hug, while the Financial Wellbeing team helped carry the groceries to their car.

It's a simple moment that captures what Anglicare's Affordable Pantry is all about.

This pilot demonstrates a new way of supporting people; one that goes beyond providing emergency relief, to building genuine relationships, restoring dignity and helping people strengthen their long-term financial wellbeing.

Rather than simply meeting an immediate need, the Affordable Pantry creates opportunities for meaningful conversations, practical coaching and ongoing connection. It is one tangible example of how FinWell is helping clients build financial capability while providing affordable access to everyday essentials.

Chandelle Mallitt, Operational Lead, Affordable Food Pantry, has been working closely with the Parramatta site team since its launch and says the first week of the soft launch has already demonstrated the value of this different approach.

"In just the first week, we welcomed 23 shoppers through the Community Pantry, and every one of them received a $10 welcome voucher to experience how the pantry works," Chandelle said.

"What was really encouraging was that around half of those shoppers chose to purchase additional groceries (beyond the value of their welcome voucher), showing people are already seeing the value of having access to affordable food in a welcoming environment."

Chandelle said customers were purchasing everyday essentials such as meat, vegetables, toilet paper, washing powder and milk, while also helping shape the future of the pantry.

"We've loved hearing directly from shoppers about what they'd like to see on the shelves next. Suggestions like cooking oil, sugar, salt and pepper are helping us build a pantry that genuinely reflects the needs and pallet of the local community."

While early interest has been encouraging, Chandelle says it's the conversations behind them that matter most.

"Every person who walks through the door has a story. The pantry is giving us the opportunity to slow down, build trust and have conversations that simply wouldn't happen in a traditional emergency relief setting. That's where we can begin connecting people with longer-term support and helping them build financial confidence."

The Parramatta Community Pantry is currently open Tuesday to Thursday, from 11.00am to 4.00pm, and every visit is helping refine a model that supports people in practical, sustainable and relational ways.

If you know someone who would love to be part of this exciting new initiative or if you'd like to get involved yourself, please share our volunteer opportunity on Seek Volunteers or consider applying.