The cold weather can lead to an increase in utility and food bills which puts extra pressure on family finances, said Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services assistant manager Ann Fletcher.

"Through our popular programs such as OzHarvest and our Emergency Relief Program we know our pantry items are always in high demand and go very quickly to those in need," she said.

"Winter comes with the added pressures of increased utility bills with people trying to keep warm. People are having to choose between paying bills or buying food for their family."

To help keep the service's pantry stocked and supplying families in need, The Mutual Bank has launched a winter appeal and is calling on the community to contribute items to it.

All items donated to the Mutual Bank Raymond Terrace branch during the winter appeal will be donated to Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services.

The not-for-profit organisation is based in Raymond Terrace but provides community programs and services to the entire Port Stephens LGA.

The Mutual Bank Raymond Terrace business banking manager Scott Pulbrook said no donation was too small and can be dropped into the William Street branch any time until the end of June.

"PSFANS does an amazing job not just in Raymond Terrace but right across the shire and I'm so pleased our team has chosen to help them with a winter appeal," he said.

"We hope our members and the community might add an extra item to their own shopping trolley and make a donation to the appeal, which we know will be greatly appreciated."

Suggested winter appeal donations include:

The Raymond Terrace branch, located at 24 William Street, is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm.

For more information on Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services or to access its services go to www.psfans.org.au.

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