How We Can Help
How We Can Help / Community Pantry / Material Aid / Dining Room
Our Services
Helping Hands have two Emergency Aid programs that help the community, one with food parcels and the other with household items (material aid).
Both have different processes which you can read more about below or give us a call on 1300 892 010 if you have any questions.
Community Pantry
Our Community Pantries are here to support individuals and families during tough times. Whether you’re experiencing financial hardship, a sudden crisis, or just need a bit of extra help, we’re here for you.
We partner with supermarkets, food rescue organisations, manufacturers, and local businesses to offer a wide range of fresh produce, pantry staples, freezer meals, toiletries, and hygiene essentials.
Who can access the pantry?
To be eligible, you’ll need to hold one of the following:
A valid Health Care Card (concession or pension)
An Immi Card
A Student Visa in your name
You’ll also need to bring photo ID (e.g. a driver's license) when registering.
How to register if this is your first time
All registrations are done in person at our head office at 14 McIntosh Street, Airport West.
Our team will provide you with a short form to fill out, and once your details are processed, we’ll give you a call to book your first Pantry appointment (if eligible).
Where will I go for my pantry appointments?
Once you're registered, you’ll be booked into the Community Pantry closest to your home — either our Airport West or Sunshine location.
If you or someone you know is struggling to put food on the table, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Material Aid Program
Each week, we provide essential household items to individuals and families facing challenging circumstances. Life can change quickly — the people we support may be affected by natural disasters, illness, sudden job loss, homelessness, family violence, or other unexpected hardships.
What Can We Help With?
Depending on current availability, we may be able to assist with:
Essential white goods
Furniture
Clothing
Homewares
Please note that items are limited and support is based on demand and what we have in stock at the time.
How to Apply for Support
If you or someone you’re supporting needs help, a case manager, support worker or agency will need to complete a Material Aid Request Form.
Forms can be:
Emailed to our team, or
Dropped off in person at our office inside the McIntosh Street Op Shop Airport West
We accept referrals from agencies across Victoria who are working with people in crisis or extreme hardship.
For Support Workers & Agencies
(First-Time Applicants)
If this is your first time applying for a client, please also complete our Agency Registration Form with your referral.
Community Dining Room
Location: Airport West Op Shop – 14 McIntosh Street
Lunch: Monday to Friday, 12pm–2pm – Just $5
Morning & Afternoon Tea: All day – $2 donation
Looking for good food and great company? Join us at our Airport West store for a warm, freshly made lunch or a cuppa and chat anytime during the day. Our lunch menu changes daily and might include anything from hearty soups and casseroles to fresh salads, sandwiches, quiches, bakes, and more.
We proudly create most of our meals from top-quality rescued food, thanks to our partnerships with OzHarvest, Fareshare, Foodbank and Second Bite – turning food that might otherwise go to waste into something delicious and nourishing.
Pop in for morning or afternoon tea anytime – for a $2 donation, enjoy cakes, biscuits and hot drinks (the kettle’s always on!).
This is more than just a meal – it’s a place to connect, unwind, and feel at home. Everyone is welcome.
