15 Years – 15 Stories of Belonging: The Kindness Cupboard

Sometimes, connection begins with something simple – a conversation, a helping hand, a reminder that you’re not alone.

At The Place, our Kindness Cupboard is one of the many ways our community shows up for each other—quietly, consistently, and with care.

Established in 2020 through a collaboration with Project Kindness, the Kindness Cupboard was created to support people in our community who are doing it tough. Since then, it has continued to grow—powered not by large systems or ongoing funding, but by something even more meaningful - 100% community support.

Stocked through donations and generosity, the cupboard provides access to essential items for those who need them—offering support in a way that is respectful, accessible and grounded in dignity.

Connection isn’t always about programs or activities. Sometimes, it’s about knowing that if you need support, there is a place you can go, and people who care. The Kindness Cupboard creates that connection and what makes it special is the community behind it. The Kindness Cupboard is a shared effort, a collective response and a reflection of what community can be at its best.

There are many people, groups and organisations that have generously donated non-perishable food and hygiene items to the Kindness Cupboard. Michelle and the Active, Stronger, Better participants, Oz Harvest and the Cameron Park Fellowship congregation are just a few to mention who have played a significant role in keeping the cupboard stocked and accessible.

While the cupboard provides practical support, its impact goes beyond the items on the shelves. It creates a sense of dignity in times of need, a feeling of being supported, not judged and connection to a wider community that cares. For many, it’s not just about receiving help—it’s about knowing they are not alone.

Across communities, more people are experiencing financial pressure and hardship. In these moments, Community Centres like The Place become even more important—not just as service providers, but as spaces of connection, compassion and support.

As we celebrate 15 Years of Belonging, the Kindness Cupboard reminds us that everyone has a role to play in building a connected community. Give what you can, take what you need and find your place to connect.