The increase in demand is behind a push for larger premises in Pakenham and a food distribution room to be established in Lang Lang.

Cardinia Combined Churches Caring (4Cs) emergency food bank co-ordinator Jeni Mathieson said this year there had been a 35per cent rise in people seeking help and larger premises were needed to store needed food donations.

"We operate out of 12 square metres in Pakenham, but to keep up with the demand we need at least 50 square metres.

"We are so cramped here that when a counsellor comes in to help a client, I have to leave the building.

"We also need a food distribution room in Lang Lang, similar to that already established in Emerald."

One of 4Cs' main missions is to keep families together, Ms Mathieson said.

"If we can help by supplying food so other bills can be paid, we can help keep families in their homes."

Although 4Cs helps hundreds of families on a regular basis, a lack of funding is a stumbling block.

The organisation receives only a small amount of Federal Government funds that helps cover utility bills and some rent.

To get more funding, Ms Mathieson finds herself "busy writing submissions to philanthropic organisations".

"I write these all year round. If any organisation or corporation can help us or sponsor us, we would be grateful."

The 4Cs food bank is open to anyone in the shire who is in crisis. It has been operating since 1997.

Details: 59412268.