HOW THE PANTRY WORKS
Do I Need to Show a Pension Card, Centrelink Card or Other ID?
No. Everyone is welcome to shop at the Pantry, regardless of their financial situation, and no identification is required.
We understand that asking for help can feel difficult, especially for people who have had to repeatedly share personal information with different organisations. Our aim is to create a space that is welcoming, respectful, non-judgemental, and accessible to everyone.
Is the Food Free?
Most Pantry items are sold on a low-cost, cost-recovery basis. We purchase much of our food and groceries ourselves and also cover expenses such as rent, electricity, and transport. We do not receive government funding for stock, so customer purchases help keep the Pantry running.
Even so, prices are significantly lower than supermarkets. For example, spending $25 at the Pantry may provide the equivalent of around $60 worth of supermarket groceries. We also often have free bread and rescued fruit and vegetables available.
What If I Have No Money?
We do not want to turn away people who are genuinely struggling. We keep a small supply of donated food available for emergency support.
Pantry vouchers may also be available through local support services, including:
St Vincent de Paul Society
Mission Australia
Women’s Resource Centre
SEWACS
Sapphire Neighbourhood Services
We also regularly have free bread, fruit, vegetables, and sometimes meat available for those in need.
Who Can Shop at the Pantry?
Everyone is welcome at the Pantry.
Our shoppers include:
People experiencing food insecurity or struggling with the rising cost of living
Individuals and families going through difficult times such as job loss, illness, housing stress, or relationship breakdown
People who want to reduce food waste and support environmentally responsible food rescue
Community members who simply want to support the Pantry and help strengthen the local community
Much of our stock comes from wholesalers, food rescue programs, and donated surplus goods. Some products may be close to their best-before date, have changed packaging, or be discontinued items that would otherwise go to landfill.
By shopping at the Pantry, customers are helping reduce waste while also supporting a local community initiative.
Please note: some donated items are reserved specifically for people in urgent need and may not always be available to all shoppers.
Membership
We offer an optional Pantry membership program. For just $2 per year, members receive discounts on purchases every time they shop, plus a free bag of goodies when joining or renewing.
Opening Hours
The Pantry is open Tuesday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
Tuesday: 11am – 2pm
Wednesday: 11am – 2pm
Thursday: 11am – 4pm
Friday: 11am – 2pm
Mobile Pantry
Many of our customers live in villages surrounding Bega or have difficulty travelling into town. Our Mobile Pantry helps bring affordable food and essential items closer to the community.
You can learn more on our Mobile Pantry page.
Sapphire Community Pantry is kept alive with not only food donations but also by our volunteers who donate so much of their time. If you would like to give back to your community through worthwhile volunteering please get in touch. We’d love to hear from you.