The Salvation Army Albany launches new food service during COVID-19 pandemic

The Salvation Army Albany has launched a food service to fill the bellies of those in need.

Working with food relief charity SecondBite, they have started to collect bring donated items to their op-shop for those experiencing tough times.

The service has been running for two weeks, with food collected from the Coles store in Albany.

Salvation Army Albany auxiliary lieutenant Colette Albino said they wanted to stop families going hungry, especially during the COVID-19 crisis.

“We wanted to make sure that people here in Albany who are in food stress have access to a source,” she said.

“Sometimes it’s pride that keeps someone from asking for assistance. Having it here allows someone to pick and choose like at a market and I hope it removes some of the stigma for those needing to stretch a budget that is reduced for whatever reason.

“Anyone can come and get what they need while it’s there, and we hope that those who know someone struggling might let that person or family know of the availability.

“It’s first come first served, but we have more in the main pantry at the hall through our Doorways program.” Ms Albino said last year’s Red Shield Appeal funds were used to buy a big fridge/ freezer to boost their hampers.

“We wanted to increase the nutritional value by adding fruits and vegies so we formed a partnership with SecondBite towards that end,” she said.

“Our Salvo founder William Booth once said, ‘You cannot warm the hearts of people if they have empty bellies and cold feet’.”