It is aimed at supporting families and individuals experiencing short-term financial pressure.
Funded and delivered by the Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group, the food cart is located at the reception of Benalla Community Care in the Ray Sweeney Centre, at 45 Coster St.
The cart operates on a trust basis to ensure locals can access essentials with dignity.
It removes barriers to assistance by allowing community members to take what they need without questions or paperwork.
It stocks a range of non-perishable food items, including tinned fish, vegetables, soups, pasta, rice and long-life milk.
Personal care items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant and baby wipes are also available for those who need them.
Fresh produce will also be a feature of the cart through the ‘Grow Free’ initiative.
This aspect of the program, run in collaboration with Benalla Health, encourages residents with surplus home-grown fruit and vegetables to donate their extra harvest, ensuring fresh and healthy options are accessible to everyone in the community.
Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said the project was a practical way to support residents who might be struggling.
"We know things are tight for a lot of families at the moment, and sometimes you just need a little bit of help to get through the week," Cr Hearn said.
"This cart is about looking after our own. It is simple, and it is there for anyone who needs it.
“We want people to feel comfortable taking a few items to support putting dinner on the table. That is what being a community is all about."
While the food cart is designed for immediate short-term relief, it also serves as a bridge to further assistance.
Information is available at the cart for residents requiring ongoing support, directing them to local services such as Waminda Community House, Tomorrow Today, the St Vincent de Paul Society, the Salvation Army and the Uniting Church.
The project is a collaborative effort funded by the Benalla and District Social Inclusion Action Group, Benalla Rural City Council and the Victorian Department of Health.
It is delivered in partnership with the Benalla Community Food Collective and hosted by Benalla Health’s Community Care.
For more information, call 5760 2600.
21°C