SOUTHERN Peninsula Community Support (SPCS) and Capel Sound Community Hub (CSCH) have been awarded grants to tackle food insecurity, totalling $50,000 – just in time to spread some Christmas cheer for families in need.
The funding, provided through Chobani Australia’s The Big Difference program, will help grassroots organisations expand services, innovate programs, and strengthen community resilience.
SPCS received $30,000 to upgrade its pantry and kitchen, supporting more than 2000 local families.
CEO Jeremy Maxwell said each month they provide food and material aid to over 1000 people.
“Every week, our case workers work with those at risk of homelessness, and our outreach teams work with people who are homeless. Upgrading our pantry and kitchen will give those people an opportunity to be nourished and connected back into those who care,” he said.
CSCH was awarded $20,000 for a garden expansion and a five-day-a-week on-site pantry providing fresh fruits and vegetables to one of Melbourne’s most disadvantaged communities.
Launched in August 2025, The Big Difference program aims to create lasting impact in food security, strengthening the capacity of local organisations to provide sustainable, community-driven solutions.
According to Chobani Australia, 503,000 households in Victoria regularly skip meals, and more than 412,000 children live in homes where food runs out before pay arrives, these groups are on the front line of a growing crisis.
First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 17 December 2025
