Residents put their hearts into community pantry
THE spirit is strong in Bundaberg - and we're not talking about rum.
The response to a Community Cupboard launched in the city last week has been incredible.
The cupboard, an initiative Bundy organisation Angels Community Group, is not one for crockery or brooms but a pantry people can place non-perishable groceries for people in need to take as required.
About four trolleys full of food later, organiser Sue Tasker has been overwhelmed by people's generosity and support.
Ms Tasker said one woman had restocked the entire cupboard with essentials such as washing powder and food.
She was amazed by the support from strangers who took to social media to help spread the message and others who donated what they could.
"Whether it's a Cup a Soup donated by a pensioner or a cupboard full by some a little better off, it's appreciated.”
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The decision to keep the cupboard open 24 hours is working well and Ms Tasker knows they made the right choice doing so.
"Everyone has been so good with it and I'm amazed with the reaction, the kindness and respect given.”
"I know it's a privacy thing and people mostly use it of a night.
"That way no one has to see or know that they may need help.”
The group's philosophy is that "you have two hands, one to help yourself, the second to help others” appears to have resonated.
"I can see it's not just one person coming in to do their weekly shop, and that's heart warming,” Ms Tasker said.
She said the Community Cupboard showed people in Bundaberg were in need.
The Community Cupboard is outside Second 2 None, 45a Walla St.
