A Perth community food bank says it has seen a sharp rise in both volunteers and people seeking support over the past six months, as cost-of-living pressures continue to squeeze household budgets across Western Australia.

Demand on the Rise

Staff at the charity say weekly food parcel requests have climbed noticeably, with many new faces among the working families and pensioners seeking assistance. The organisation credits an outpouring of community support for helping it keep pace with demand.

Volunteers Step Up

Dozens of new volunteers have joined in recent months, sorting donations, packing hampers, and helping with deliveries to elderly residents who cannot travel to collection points. Coordinators say younger volunteers, including university students, have been especially active on weekends.

How the Community Can Help

• Donate non-perishable food items at local drop-off points
• Sign up for a volunteer shift through the food bank website
• Consider a small recurring donation to help with rising operational costs

Organisers say the response from the local community has been “overwhelming” and hope continued support will help the service keep up with need heading into the new year.