Open Pantry

A community hub providing affordable food, coffee and community

Open Pantry is a community hub providing affordable food, coffee and community, located in Blackett, New South Wales.

About Open Pantry

Open Pantry has provided food security to the Western Sydney community over many years.

Jesuit Social Services took over Open Pantry in early 2023, to strengthen our existing food security work in Western Sydney. This work includes our Ignite Food Store, and Currawong Kitchen, which provides healthy school lunches at two schools in the area.

How does Open Pantry work?

Open Pantry redistributes rescued food that has been sourced by Foodbank and other food rescue organisations.

Products provides through Open Pantry would have been destined for landfill, but not because they’re expired – often, it’s because their labels are printed incorrectly, they don’t meet a certain consumer standard, or they are close to their best before date, but not expired.

How much does it cost to get a food hamper from Open Pantry?

Food hampers at Open Pantry start from $6. We provide a selection of $6 and $10 hampers. After you choose at least one hamper, you’re welcome to add on additional products to your order, which are all priced individually.

Do I need to be on a benefit to access Open Pantry?

No, you don’t need to be receiving a benefit payment to access Open Pantry. You don’t need a pension card or a health care card.

I have no money and no food, are you able to help?

If you are in a crisis situation and need help, please contact Jesuit Social Services’ Western Sydney team to complete an urgent application for assistance.

You can contact the Western Sydney team via:

Phone: (02) 9628 2288
Email: westernsydney@jss.org.au
Facebook: facebook.com/ignitefoodstore

Who can participate in the program?

Everyone is welcome at Open Pantry.

Where is open Pantry located?

Open Pantry operates from The Rutherglen Community Centre, 24 Anderson Avenue, Blackett, NSW