Help keep community pantries stocked this holiday season

Published on 08 December 2025

Groceries

The Mount Alexander Community Pantry Network is calling for donations to help ensure local pantries are stocked over the holidays, so everyone has access to the essentials they need.

The Network, formerly known as the Mount Alexander Food Relief Network, has refreshed its name to better reflect its purpose.

“We’re more than just food – we’re a whole pantry for the whole community,” said Network Chair, Claire McDonald.

“Changing our name helps reduce stigma and makes it clear that these pantries are here for everyone who needs a little extra support.”

What’s needed? The pantries are seeking donations of:

  • UHT milk
  • Tinned meat (tuna, spam, corned beef)
  • Tinned vegetables and baked beans
  • Gluten free pasta
  • Rice
  • Vegemite, peanut butter, jam
  • Pasta sauce
  • Toiletries
  • Cereal
  • Ready-made meals (heat and eat)

Items can be dropped off at:

  • Castlemaine Community House
  • Maldon Neighbourhood Centre
  • Castlemaine Safe Space
  • Harcourt Valley Community House
  • Harcourt’s Coolstore Café
  • The Giving Tree at Maxi IGA Castlemaine (available from Monday 8 December)

Claire McDonald added:

“The holiday season can be tough for many people. By donating, you’re helping us make sure no one goes without. Every item counts and together we can make a real difference.”

Mount Alexander Shire Council established the Network in 2025.

It brings together local organisations including Castlemaine Community House, Castlemaine Safe Space, Maldon Community Pantry, Uniting Church Maldon, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul, Harcourt Valley Community Centre, and Church of Christ Castlemaine. Together, they coordinate food and pantry distribution across the shire to ensure everyone has access to what they need.

The following community pantries are open over the festive season:

Maldon Community Pantry

Location: Hall behind Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 50 High St, Maldon
Opening hours: Wednesdays, 9.30am to 11.30am

Castlemaine Safe Space

Location: 74 Mostyn St, Castlemaine
Opening hours: Tuesdays, 4.00pm to 6.30pm, Thursdays, 9.30am to 12.00pm, Saturdays, 1.30pm to 4.00pm (open Christmas Day and New Year's Day)

Non-perishable food items available in the pantry on the veranda 24/7. Peer support is also available for those that need someone to talk to.

Castlemaine Community House

Location: 30 Templeton St, Castlemaine
Opening hours: Wednesday 24 December to Friday 2 January, Monday to Friday, 11.00am to 1.00pm. Closed weekends and public holidays (Thursday 25 December, Friday 26 December and Thursday 1 January.

Limited-service period (Food pantry only, Castlemaine Community House closed)

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