Operating since 2000, The Citicoast Pantry now helps feed more than 300 families every week as the burden of cost of living increases.
The Citicoast Pantry is a nonprofit, working under the banner of Global Care, providing low cost groceries to ensure families are fed in times of financial strain.
Manager Charissa Witherington said recently, “The Citicoast Pantry has seen an influx in need for low cost groceries as they now provide for approximately 300 households weekly.”
“Our primary focus is supporting the community with low cost groceries and emergency food assistance with a wide range of products.” Charissa said.
“As Citicoast Church also runs a cafe on the property, we hope that in the future we will be able to open it during the week so we are able to reach more of the community.”
Global Care has been in Bundaberg since 2000 and after the 2013 floods, Citicoast Church saw the need to build a designated hub to provide relief and access to food for Bundaberg residents.
In 2023 it was officially named The Citicoast Pantry and has since been given a new look.
The grocery store is run by a team of volunteers and manager, Charissa Witherington who works with the lead Pastors of Citicoast Church, Adam and Joey Ryan to feed the community.
With goals to bring fresh produce straight from farmers to residents, the team hopes to create a greater sense of connection within Bundaberg.
The Citicoast Pantry is open to everyone from 10am to 2pm every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 140 Elliott Heads Road.
The group always welcomes donations from the public in either non perishable foods or financial.
To donate contact The Citicoast Pantry directly via email: globalcare@citicoastchurch.com.au or phone 4303 0200.
