BCR Pocket Pantry Opens in Sanctuary Point

With more families in the Bay & Basin feeling the pressure of rising grocery costs, BCR Communities is responding with a new Pocket Pantry designed to provide affordable food and practical support.

Officially opening on the 4^th of May at the BCR Youth and Community Centre in Sanctuary Point, the pantry will be open to local community members and will operate every Monday and Tuesday from 10am to 1pm, offering low-cost groceries in a safe and welcoming space.

Recent research shows that more than one in three people across the Shoalhaven have experienced food insecurity in the past year, highlighting just how widespread the issue has become and why there is a growing need for direct, local support.

Stocked with everyday essentials such as eggs, cheese, bread, canned goods and cereal, the pantry will also include ready-made meals and a selection of treats.

Importantly, a range of gluten-free and dairy-free options will be available, ensuring people with dietary requirements can access suitable and affordable food.

The initiative is supported through the Financial Wellbeing and Capability - Emergency Relief Grant from the Australian Government’s Department of Social Services, helping BCR deliver targeted support to our community.

Leading the program is BCR Communities’ new Emergency Relief and Capacity Building Officer, Renee Cubbo, who brings to the role a strong background in community services.

“I’m very excited to be part of BCR Communities and to help bring the Pocket Pantry to life,” Renee said.

“We’re seeing more and more people struggling with the rising cost of living, and food is often where the pressure is felt first,”

“Having somewhere local to access low-cost, nutritious food can ease that burden and help people feel more secure.”

Renee also highlighted the strong connection between food security and mental health.

“When people don’t have reliable access to healthy food, it can lead to stress, anxiety and a sense of instability,” she said. “We know people experiencing poor mental health are more likely to struggle with food insecurity, so being able to offer support in this way can make a big difference.”

In addition to the Pocket Pantry, emergency food relief is available Monday to Thursday at the BCR Youth & Community Centre in Sanctuary Point from 9.30am to 3pm.