With more Peninsula residents facing financial hardship, Southern Peninsula Community Support has seen demand for food relief rise by 52 per cent over the past year, placing increasing pressure on the Rosebud-based organisation.
SPCS receives more than 600 visits a month, providing food, practical assistance and a sense of community for people experiencing hardship, and as demand continues to grow, the organisation is working hard to keep pace.
A recent kitchen and pantry upgrade, funded through Chobani Australia’s The Big Difference community grants program, is helping the organisation respond to that growing need. The upgrade will allow SPCS to prepare and distribute an extra 600 free meals each month, significantly expanding its support for local individuals and families.
“Every week we’re seeing more people needing support,” said SPCS executive officer Kera Zaltsberg, “and it’s becoming increasingly important that we have the facilities to respond. The kitchen upgrade means we’re able to prepare more nutritious meals for our community and support more people when they need it most.”
Volunteer Steve Gahan has witnessed the impact firsthand. He has been part of SPCS for the past decade after first connecting with the organisation through a Work for the Dole program. His experience reflects what many already know about SPCS: it’s about much more than providing food; it’s a place where people find connection, dignity and hope during difficult times.
The Big Difference supports Victorian not-for-profit organisations tackling food insecurity through practical, long-term solutions rather than short-term food relief. As demand continues to rise across the Peninsula, initiatives such as The Big Difference are helping local organisations strengthen their capacity to support those who need it most.
After the success of last year’s program, Chobani has invited applications for the 2026 round, with $150,000 available to Victorian community organisations. Grants of up to $20,000, $30,000 and $50,000 will be awarded to projects that improve food access, strengthen community food programs and build long-term organisational capacity.
Applications close on August 25, and recipients will be announced in November. Eligibility criteria and application forms are available at www.chobani.com.au/the-big-difference
