Kyogle Lions Food Pantry a Lifeline for Rural Families Doing It Tough
For World Hunger Day on May 28, the Kyogle Lions Club was proud to spotlight the incredible community collaboration behind their local food initiative that now supports nearly 900 families across the Kyogle region.
The project is powered by local kindness – with farmers donating fresh vegetables, community members contributing funds, and local businesses like the chemist and Vinnies providing vouchers.
Together, they turn compassion into action with the Kyogle Lions Community Food Pantry.

L–R: Food Pantry Assistant Manager Emma (Lions member), Kyogle Librarian Sheryl, and Food Pantry Manager Roz (Lions member) accepting a donation from the library.
Kyogle Lion and Pantry Project Coordinator Roz Knights OAM says the project was born when the Club was asked to take over a small 50-square-metre church-run pantry.
“Recognising the growing need in our rural region, the Lions sought out a larger space and thanks to the generosity of a philanthropic landlord, we were able to relocate to a new 220-square-metre site to expand operations,” says Roz Knights OAM.
Since then, the project has grown exponentially. What started with a few helping hands now involves 41 local staff including 11 Lions volunteers, contributing more than 220 hours of service each week to ensure that vulnerable families can access affordable food.

L-R: Food Pantry Assistant Manager and Lion Emma Slaney and staff member Lion Elaine McLean in front of the fruit and vegetable stand.
Each week, the Pantry distributes around 3 tonnes of food, thanks in part to its partnership with Foodbank NSW & ACT Limited. Families purchase groceries at dramatically reduced prices – with the food pantry often giving away $300 worth of food for what would otherwise cost over $900 at a major supermarket.
Every client also leaves with free bread and approximately $25 worth of fresh fruit and vegetables, much of it donated by local farmers, home growers, and businesses.
“We’ve grown from a small act of service to a region-wide food network,” adds Roz Knights OAM. “We’re proud to provide a local solution to a growing problem and proud to prove that community spirit is alive and well in Kyogle.”

Some of the Kyogle Food Pantry’s staff members who volunteer some 220 hours per week.
The project is also supported by the Kyogle chemist, Vinnies, local medical centres, schools, and churches, who refer families and offer voucher programs. Donations flow in from the cinema, library, op shops, schools, and individuals supporting this important Lions project.
Hunger is one of Lions Club’s key global focus areas.
Well done to all involved in this incredible and life-changing project, helping those who need it most.