The House will be the recipient a $55,000 grant thanks to the Victorian State Government Community Relief Fund, which will help complete kitchen upgrades to improve Stawell resident's access to food services.

The Community Food Relief Fund is a Victorian Government initiative to help support local community organisations supplying food to Victorians in need during the coronavirus pandemic.

Stawell Neighbourhood House coordinator Christine Dearman said the group is going to use the grant to help run their multiple food services.

"Everyone at the house is excited for the much needed upgrades allowing us to connect and collaborate with other organisations in Stawell to deliver much needed food relief for Stawell and surrounds," she said.

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"Stawell Neighbourhood House focuses on creating a welcoming environment which is safe, warm and inviting to everyone from our community and surrounds.

"An inclusive environment full of opportunities for individuals and groups to enrich their lives through connections they might not normally make."

As part of the Community Food Relief Fund the St Arnaud Community Resource Centre also received $17,000 to develop and improve their food services.

Ms Dearman said as part of their support for those who need it, the House runs a 'Second Bite' program and organises and delivers community lunches and relief hampers.

She said their programs would now be able to be delivered more efficiently and safely with commercial upgrades, storage facilities and new equipment working with and supporting local trades.

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Ms Dearman also said the 'Second Bite' program involves the House partnering "with local business, organisations and Foodbank Victoria, along with the generosity of our local community, to provide food for our most vulnerable community members".

"The second bite program allows the opportunity for people to come and select food items to best suit their needs along with receiving fresh produce, eggs and bread in an environment which allows people to feel safe and welcoming," she said.

The House also creates relief hampers for men, women and families escaping domestic violence or are facing homelessness.

These hampers consist of food essentials, fresh produce, personal hygiene products and some home essentials.

The House also runs some community lunches to help social inclusion, connectedness and community engagement in an environment which is inviting and welcoming for everyone from our community.

Work to upgrade the facilities is set to commence in late March and may have some impact on current programs.

To find out more about what is happening at the Stawell Neighbourhood House call 03 5358 3500 or office@snhlc.org.au.

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