This month we are highlighting Bulls Food Pantry, A food rescue service that operates in Bulls from the St James Presbyterian Hall on Daniell street. They offer free food to their community, with everyone welcome, and operate during school terms from 3:30 to 4 pm on Fridays. 

The idea for the Bulls Food Pantry was born from the first lockdown in 2020, when it was discovered there were whanau from Bulls who were regularly using the Marton Food Pantry. This was putting extra pressure on the Marton Pantry and highlighted the need for an operation closer to home. The Bulls community came together, and it was decided to try and create a service outside of the traditional food banks that was available to all whanau.   

After reaching out to the St James Presbyterian Hall, they hit the ground running and haven’t looked back! The church has been extremely supportive of their work and continues to provide help when needed. Bonnie Ellery, the community development manager at Bulls and Community District Trust, credits many individuals and organisations with the success they have had. “Kelly Widdowson from Marton Food Pantry has been our lifesaver, she has taught us that while there may not be much food – there is always enough to go around. She connected us with Just Zilch early on in our journey and we have been consistently able to provide food to an average of 20  households a week.” 

She says that they receive support from too many Bulls businesses to name, as well as Just Zilch and individuals who drop off fresh fruit and vegetables. Even local schools have been helping, running mufti days and collecting non-perishable food to donate. Bonnie says it’s an incredible feeling being well supported by the community, and they are grateful for all of it.  

Bulls Food Pantry has followed the kaupapa of other organisations like Just Zilch, Marton Food Pantry and Te Pataka Kai 4412 in offering a no questions asked service. They currently have 14 volunteers who rotate shifts fortnightly, with volunteer tasks ranging from setting up the hall, packing down, doing a Just Zilch run, rotating and marking stock, and leading the team for the day. 

Up to date information on whats happening at Bulls food Pantry can be found through their facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/Bulls-Food-Pantry-100973305394952), and if anyone wants to help donate any goods or offer their services as a volunteer they can contact them by emailing bullsfoodpantry@gmail.com