About 90,000 kilograms of food is distributed from the Bendigo Foodshare warehouse each month.

That food is sent to 22 agencies, about 50 schools and 30 meal programs across our region - meaning many who might not otherwise eat well are being provided with high quality, nutritional meals.

It is a credit to the wonderful people at Foodbank Victoria and Foodshare Bendigo.

But as Foodbank Victoria coordinator Brien correctly states, it's also a credit to the local producers and providers who support the organisation with high quality products.

But even with such strong support and such a high volume leaving the warehouse, Foodshare can't keep up with demand.

There are many in our community relying on regular food parcels for survival, with the number higher than the state average.

The rising costs of household living is putting pressure on many families in our region - and feeding hungry tummies is getting harder and harder.

There would be many in our community who don't know how to ask for help, or would not feel comfortable doing so. 

Perhaps each of us can keep an eye on those around us and help where we can. Foodshare Bendigo is showing us how.

Nicole Ferrie, deputy editor