Henry’s Pantry Is Open To Everyone In The Community

Henry’s Pantry is a food relief and food rescue social enterprise based in Parkes, established to support individuals and fam­ilies from the central west experiencing fi­nancial hardship.

Founded on 9 May 2013, Henry’s Pan­try (originally named Georgie’s Pantry) has been the only organisation in the dis­trict to deliver a consistent and sustainable charitable food service. Between 2018 and 2022, its services were expanded to in­clude drought relief supporting local farm­ers.

Pantry volunteers haven’t missed a service since, supporting an average of around 50 families, or around 150 and 200 people each week.

The Pantry operates with ten dedicated volunteers who contribute their time across three days each week. Volunteers under­take a range of roles, including collecting donated food from local supermarkets, stocking shelves, preparing grocery ham­pers, and welcoming customers.

Food donations are collected from Wool­worths six days a week and Aldi three days a week. They also purchase food from Foodbank, local supermarkets and Central West Food Rescue. Many local families supply dozens of eggs, offer oranges, spin­ach, honey and other fresh produce ensur­ing a reliable supply of food for the service.

Volunteer since day one, Shirley West­garth, who is a retired nurse in her 90’s said she volunteers because she loves it, “I love helping people.”

Shirley can only volunteer in the warmer months, but says she comes every day, “I am coming Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.”

Some patrons access the service regu­larly throughout the year, while others use it temporarily. Community support is vital to the ongoing operation of Henry’s Pantry, and both individuals and businesses are encouraged to contribute through dona­tions of food, partnerships, or volunteering.

Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am to 1pm, Henry’s Pantry is located in Jansen Lane (at the rear of the Lutheran Church, 96 Currajong Street). A parking area and ramp access is available.