THE impact of coronavirus has been felt far and wide and the region's food programs are no exception.
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Ararat Neighbourhood House's Food Hub and Stawell Neighbourhood House's Second Bite programs have made changes to its normal routine.
"'Panic Buying' has meant that our supermarkets are struggling to keep up supply, and this has filtered down to the ANH Food Hub," Ararat coordinator Lou Makin said.
"We are fortunate to normally be well supported by local supermarkets, however if they have no stock to donate, it definitely impacts hugely on the amount of produce available in the Food Hub.
"FoodBank Victoria has advised its agencies that due to the state government's State of Emergency declaration, there is a high likelihood that FoodBank Victoria will be called on to deliver additional emergency relief in coming weeks. This may impact on quantities and assortment of items that we are able to order.
Ms Makin said the Ararat Neighbourhood House's Food Hub program would continue to support the community of Ararat and surrounding areas to the best of its ability.
"We do ask that people be mindful of our limitations given the current climate," she said.
"We have taken precautions to ensure the safety of everybody, including scheduling extra cleaning of the facility, encouraging good personal hygiene and hand washing practices, and for the period of time whilst we are under a State of Emergency, postponing any indoor programs and activities which go for 2 hours or more.
"We encourage everybody to follow safety precautions and to be considerate, thoughtful and kind to each other during these times."
Stawell Neighbourhood House coordinator Christine Dearman said they were thinking outside the square to help flatten the curve.
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"We implemented our social distancing while still providing much needed services to our community," she said.
"Our second bite program will still continue to operate on Wednesday and Friday 10am to 2pm.
"If someone hasn't used the service before and are in need, they are welcome to come and see me and I will help them through the process.
"If anyone has any questions or would like to talk to me over the phone, our lines will still be open, and they can call me on 5358 3500."
Mrs Dearman said produce, especially fresh, was still welcome to be dropped off at opening times.
"This could include any extra food people might have growing in their gardens at home.
"Or something that might still be in date and has been sitting in their pantry for some time."
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