Food Hall celebrates five years of providing fresh produce

The Food Hall was opened in 2014 by members of various community organisations in an effort help meet a growing demand for food.

"There was a lot of people in need at the time," committee member Naomi Peters said.

More than 40 volunteers, along with a committee of six people, provide their time to help the Food Hall operate each Wednesday from 9am to 12noon.

It's designed to help people in receipt of benefits and/or lower income earners access groceries. For $10 the Food Hall provides a pick of 11 grocery items delivered in from Food Bank NSW in Sydney plus the opportunity to pick from the free table.

The free table has an array of fruit, vegetables, bread and more.

Young Food Hall can be accessed by anyone with a concession card, while people in emergencies can approach local charities which can subsidise the cost.

Committee member Donna Davis explained that the Food Hall isn't a charity.

"It's really important that people know it's not a charity. It's a not-for-profit, but people pay $10 and get a lot more value," she said.

"Woolworths and Aldi donate their close to use-by date and best-by date food also which has helped tremendously over the years.

"It's all donated, you name it, it comes in."

Donna added that it also provides a social setting for a chat. "The value-added social part is just as big as what people are getting for their money which is getting them by each week."

Jenny Howell is the volunteer coordinator. Naomi and Donna also made mention of Laurel Merrin was the original Volunteer Coordinator and was instrumental in the initial consultation and establishment of the Food Hall.

"We have an amazing group of volunteers who have stuck with us through thick and thin. They come every week and do an absolute magnificent job," Donna added.

Donna and Naomi thanked all who have contributed to the Food Hall's success.

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