The shelves are stocked but volunteer supplies are running low at Nowra Community Food Store.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The store opened their doors in 2013 and provides a wide range of inexpensive groceries, cleaning and personal care products and fruit and vegetables to people who are doing it tough.
The majority of the goods are rescued either through Foodbank or by the store’s own drivers sourcing fresh products and produce within the Shoalhaven.
While manager Helen Esdaile said she’s seen the demand for the service increase dramatically in recent years, they’re struggling with their volunteer numbers.
“We have grown so fast and our volunteer base hasn’t been able to keep up with that,” she said.
“We’re looking to the community, anyone who would like to become involved in volunteering here, we would welcome them here.”
Volunteer duties available range from stacking shelves, product pricing and cleaning to unpacking pallets and sorting fruit and vegetables for sale.
The store is based at unit 10/158 Princes Highway South Nowra and is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9.30am to 3.30pm and Friday from 9.30am to 1.30pm.
Ms Esdaile said the pressure to extend the these hours is increasing but volunteers are needed first.
‘It’s very fulfilling work and it’s lovely to meet the people we meet,” she said,
“It’s a great place to build relationships and the team spirit is fantastic.”
To volunteer or for more information, contact Helen on 0429 460730 or 4423 2334.