With that in mind, Parkview Public School's community pantry is continuing to offer a safe space for people who need a little extra help with putting a meal on the table.

The pantry has been running for several years now and 2021 is no different.

The idea is for people to donate items for the pantry whenever they can, allowing the shelves to be stocked year-round.

Those in need of a little extra help can them head to the school whenever they have time and pick up an item or two that they may need.

Typically the pantry houses non-perishable foods such as pasta, long-life milk, canned goods, sauces, rice and more.

Year six students have taken on ownership of the program as part of the schools on going welfare initiatives.

Students are chosen to continually check on the pantry and make sure it's stocked.

Parkview Public's youth outreach worker Anna Celi said it was a small way the school could give back to the community.

"It's also not just for our school community," Mrs Celi explained.

"You don't have to have a connection to the school to be able to pick up an item or two when you need it and likewise for people who want to donate.

"It's open to everyone to participate in."

Making sure the pantry is stocked and ready to help people need is year six students twin sisters Myah and Halle O'Meley, 11, Logan Stuart, 11, and Bailey Irvin.

The group said they enjoyed popping their heads into the front office each day, where the pantry is located, to check on stock and make sure it's all going smoothly.

"I like the idea that it's helping people," Halle said.

"It's also really fun."

Mrs Celi said the pantry was quiet last year due to COVID-19 restrictions with parents and community members unable to visit the school.

However, in 2021 there has already been many donations and uptake of items.

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"We are re-stocking continuously - we usually have donations most weeks, so it's really great," Mrs Celi said.

"Places like Freedom Foods in the past and SunRice this year have been really great as well.

"They've been donating items, which is great."

The school encourages donations, but asks residents to check they are in-date before sending them in.

Anyone wanting to pick up an item or two can take comfort in the fact their privacy is respected and they are in a safe environment when browsing the pantry.

More information about the pantry is available from the school by calling 6953 2600.