By Callum Ludwig
Gladysdale Primary School has found another way to give back to the local community.
The School Council has recently started a community pantry out the front of the school that is open for local residents and passersby to take what they may need or give what they can.
Gladysdale Primary School’s School Council President Beck Jane said they have a very community-focused school council that workshopped the idea about 12 months ago.
“The supplies for the pantry build come from Sanders Apples and the schools families and the food donations, so far, have come from school families,” she said.
“Being a roadside pantry, we wanted to provide an easily accessible place for people to go for food, sometimes walking into a building and asking for help can be confronting. “
Located at 550 Little Yarra Road, Gladysdale Primary School’s community pantry can be clearly spotted out the front of the school and is easily accessible for pedstrian on the footpath or motorists who can pull up into one of the car parks and quickly grab anything they need with minimum fuss. It can be found right near the shiny red apple at the front of the school.
Ms Jane said the community pantry is open to anyone in need, and anyone can donate.
“We have some lovely locals who have pledged their home grown citrus, stone fruits and eggs,” she said.
“Our Patch to Plate program will be providing fresh herbs and we are also in talks with some local businesses for weekly donations of their surplus food so keep your eyes peeled.”
To start, the community pantry has been adorned with an array of ready-to-eat soup, cans of baked beans, a couple of jars of Vegemite and some other goods.
Anyone wishing to donate to the pantry, simply bring any items you have and place them on one of the shelves of the pantry.
