A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN initiative is making a difference for those struggling to afford necessities in Wonthaggi.
The Wonthaggi Owl Ute, a mobile pantry run by the Wonthaggi Owl Women – a branch of the Country Women’s Association (CWA) – is providing vital support to people in need in the form of food and essential items.
The initiative was born out of necessity when the community pantry at Wonthaggi Library was closed. Carol Maygar, a representative of the CWA and member of the homelessness association, had been collecting food donations from Woolworths for the library’s pantry. When the pantry shut down, she found herself storing food at home. This led to the idea of a mobile pantry that could travel where it was most needed.
Carol, along with her husband Rod Maygar, who assists with the Owl Ute every Monday, and Heidi Vanzet, Branch President of the CWA Wonthaggi Owl Women, have been working tirelessly to keep the initiative running.
“The cost of living is driving an increase in demand for these products,” said Heidi Vanzet. “There are people we hear about who are forced to choose between paying rent or feeding their family.”
The Wonthaggi Owl Ute is stocked with donations from the local Woolworths, which contributes items when they do a cleanout. Carol also keeps the supermarket informed about how the mobile pantry is helping the community.
High-demand items include pantry staples, toiletries, and cleaning products. Tea, coffee, and sugar, preferably in smaller packets, are especially appreciated. However, refrigerated items are not accepted.
“We don’t mind how many bags people take. People take what they need,” Carol said. “We’ve got quite a few people who are coming back each time.”
The mobile pantry serves a diverse group, including pensioners waiting for Centrelink payments, families struggling with rising mortgage costs, refugees, homeless individuals, and renters facing steep increases.
“You get everyone, from people needing just one meal to those needing food for a week,” Carol added.
Despite operating for only one hour a week, the Owl Ute helps feed roughly 10 to 15 people each Monday. Donations are crucial to keeping the service running.
The Owl Ute operates from 10am to 11am every Monday in the Cheap as Chips carpark, opposite the police station.
Carol extended gratitude to local MP for Bass Jordan Crugnale for donating bags and toothbrushes. “These donations are great because they give people a solid bag to carry their food and other essentials.”
Donations can be dropped off at the Wonthaggi Woolworths donation trolley, located just past the checkout area. Community groups or individuals who wish to donate larger amounts can contact ‘The Wonthaggi Owl Ute – Community Pantry’ via Facebook to arrange a donation.
With support from the community, the Wonthaggi Owl Ute continues to be a beacon of hope for those in need.
