The Food Store opened in 2019 in response to a shortage of food aid across the Eastern Dandenong Ranges. With the local shire centres around 30 minutes away, families struggling to pay the bills were also forced to pay for fuel to access the services they need. The Food Store is run by St Luke's Church in Cockatoo and supported by Echo Youth and Family Services. Our aim is to provide a local option for people needing food.

We are excited to have the support of Foodbank Victoria, which will give us regular access to basic food supplies. We will then be able to use the money that has been donated to purchase a wider range of foods and essentials at cost.

The Food Store is run entirely by volunteers and the space is provided free of charge, so every dollar raised will go to buying food and other necessities for people in need. Donations over $2 are tax deductible.