The project will add a commercial dishwasher, replace the Formica benches and shelves with stainless steel and replace the island bench.

Port Anglican Soup Kitchen received a $9378 community grant through Port Macquarie-Hastings Council towards the kitchen upgrade.

Port Anglican Soup Kitchen volunteer Karen Richards said they were thrilled with the council grant.

Ms Richards said the upgrade would provide more space, make the kitchen environment more hygienic and lead to greater efficiency.

"It just sets us up now and for the future," she said.

The kitchen upgrade will cost about $12,000.

The upgrade is funded through the council grant as well as money raised through the DineSmart campaign.

DineSmart brings together restaurants and their diners to take action against homelessness.

The weekly soup kitchen attracts an average of about 80 people doing it tough.

The soup kitchen was one of 27 groups to receive funding through round one of the council's 2019-20 Community Grants Program.

Grant recipients included the Port Macquarie Astronomical Society, Community Hair Project, Wauchope Little Athletics Centre and Kendall Men's Shed.

The Community Grants Program provides funding support to community groups and not-for-profit organisations.

Port Macquarie Astronomical Society will use its $10,000 grant for a new telescope mount.

The existing telescope mount is ageing and the new piece of equipment will enhance the astronomical views.

The Community Hair Project received a community grant of $1150.

Community Hair Project representative Evelina Kemp said the initiative brought dignity to homeless people through haircuts.

"It's a simple thing that makes people feel better in their skin," she said.

What else is making news, sport?

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.