by Yvette Brand
As the cost of living crisis deepens, a Warragul charity is rapidly expanding to meet a growing need to put food on the table.
Frankie's Community Kitchen cannot meet the current demand from local food relief centres.
It is sadly a reflection of the level of struggle being felt in our community - the choices forced on families, vulnerable and low income residents when money is tight and meals are sacrificed.
It is often a hidden welfare problem, only seen by those at food relief agencies. But for 85 volunteers rostered to help make 2000 meals a week at Frankies, they know they are making a difference.
Seven years ago when the community kitchen began as an extension to Frankies cafe in the main street of Warragul, it was an initiative that reduced the cafe's food waste while tackling food insecurity in the community. With the assistance of volunteers, they were doing 300 meals a week.

The mission: To rescue good quality food to avoid waste. To cook nutri