"We are usually quite busy, but the coronavirus restrictions have been challenging for our clients," Ms Elvey said.

BFFS is a not-for-profit organisation that operates a number of services including financial counselling, family violence support, budgeting advice and emergency food relief.

"Since we have stopped clients coming into the building, all of our financial counselling is now done over the phone, which is a challenge," Ms Elvey said.

"The downturn is not because there isn't demand, but it's because people aren't sure how they can access our service."

BFFS' emergency food relief service now operates via front door pickup, with clients urged to call ahead to arrange parcel.

"It's difficult getting the message out to clients that we are still operating, because they aren't seeing it," Ms Elvey said.

"Some of our clients are very concerned about going outside and visiting the building."

Ms Elvey says BFFS has no intention of shutting down and leaving its Myers Street premises.

"We have been classified as an essential service," she said.

"We are here for the long haul and here to support the people of Bendigo."

Any Bendigo resident who is struggling for food can access BFFS' emergency relief program, with the service to commence home delivery next week.

"If clients ring up, we don't need to know much, except for who is living in the house and what they require and we can organise a parcel to be delivered," Ms Elvey said.

"We drop it at a front gate or at the doorstep and give them a ring when the parcel is there."

Parcels include a range of food and toiletries items, with donations always welcome.

"When we make a parcel, we try and provide ingredients that would give people a balance meal," Ms Elvey said.

"Items such as tinned tuna and meats to use with rice and pasta are really useful."

A concern for Ms Elvey is that clients who access emergency relief are in genuine need and might be missing out on the essential altogether.

"It is quite concerning to not see them recently because they don't have the funds to do online shopping," she said.

Financial advice is available for people struggling with high gas and electricity bills, credit card payments and mortgage payments.

The Federal Government's JobKeeper wage subsidy recently included thresholds for charities and not-for-profit organisations.

Registered charities who have a 15 per cent decline in turnover will also be eligible for the JobKeeper program.

To get in contact with Bendigo Family and Financial Services, give them a call on 5441 5277.

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