Frankston families struggling with the cost of living will soon have access to more meals and emergency support, after Frankston City Council committed $45,000 to Community Support Frankston (CSF).
The decision comes as CSF reports record demand, with more than 860 households turning to the service for the first time in the past year. The organisation, which has been operating for over five decades, has long been considered the city’s front line for residents in crisis.
More than food parcels
While food relief remains at the core of CSF’s work, staff say the scope of need has shifted. Alongside groceries and vouchers, requests for assistance now include car-related expenses, essential medicines, and housing support.
Manager Steve Phillips said the new funding would allow CSF to expand its reach at a time when the service was under mounting pressure.
“We’re seeing new faces every week, and the reality is that more people are finding themselves unable to cover the basics of daily life,” he said.
A hot meal and a safe space
Part of the funding will be used to launch a new sit-down meal program in partnership with a local restaurant, offering free hot meals in a social setting. This is designed to complement CSF’s existing community meal service and Council’s Meals on Wheels program.
Local Councillor Michael O’Reilly said the initiative was about more than filling empty stomachs.
“For many, Community Support Frankston is the difference between eating and going without,” he said.
“Providing a safe place to share a meal also means people can connect with others and access wider support.”
Broader package of relief
The $45,000 contribution is part of a $425,000 investment across 25 community agencies, included in Council’s $1.7 million Local Support Package. The package was introduced to ease cost-of-living pressures as part of Council’s Stronger Together 2025/26 Budget.
Council says the investment reflects its focus on long-term, community-driven solutions rather than short-term fixes.
Long-standing role in the community
Community Support Frankston has operated in the city for more than 55 years, with services ranging from food relief and education assistance to emergency help with utilities and housing. The group is regularly cited by local welfare organisations as a critical lifeline for vulnerable residents.
More information about CSF’s services is available at frankston.net.
