GOODSTART Early Learning Horsham is supporting families through a new initiative.
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The centre has introduced a community pantry in its reception area with all items are free of charge.
Centre director Mel Roberts said the aim of the pantry was to support families experiencing financial hardship.
"It's something that we have been discussing for quite some time, that is, what we can do to give back to our community," she said.
"We identified that we could do more for our families and the wider community. We did some brainstorming and came up with the pantry.
"What we want to see is people taking from the pantry, and giving back to it only when they can. We don't want to put an expectation that when you take something you have to give something back straight away."
The pantry has been operational for about two weeks. Miss Roberts said the response to it had been positive.
"We've had some really warm and welcoming comments from our families. There are items missing from it, so we know people have been using it which is great," she said.
"It's clear that it's filling a gap which was identified by staff, more than the families. By knowing our families really well and having that deep relationship with them, we know there are a lot who are doing it quite tough.
"Those simple thoughts of 'what are we going to cook for dinner?' and 'what can I afford?' are hard. Now they can grab something from the pantry and everyone is fed for the night."
She said early childhood education was essential for every child.
"Research shows that the first five years are the most important for a child. Having those vulnerable families in our service just means that childrens' needs are being met and there is support for them when they need it," she said.
"Every child has the right to access early learning. It's such a crucial time in a child's development."
Miss Roberts said similar initiatives had been taken up by other Goodstart Early Learning centres around the country.
"Different regions of the country have access to different services. This is what we felt would be the best option for where we are. There's definitely a need in Horsham for more initiatives like this," she said.
The centre is now looking at other ways it can support the Horsham community.
"One of the ideas that has come forward is a soup kitchen once a fortnight. We'd make pots of soups and people who are in financial hardship can come and get a home cooked meal," she said.
Anybody can donate non-perishable items to the pantry. Miss Roberts said the aim would be to eventually open the pantry up to everyone to use.
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