The extent of the donation and how it will operate were revealed on Thursday morning.

There will be enough food for nine welfare agencies in the city to deliver to customers across Orange.

The operation will be set up in the former Willoughby's models and sports good shop in the Orange Arcade opposite the Harris Farm store.

Orange mayor Reg Kidd said it was a great gesture by Harris Farm.

"A move like this couldn't have come at a better time and council staff are pleased to assist to make local connections and help it come together," he said.

"Starting from this week Harris Farm are making make nutritious fruit and vegetables available every morning, along with cardboard trays," he said.

"It will be wheeled across the Orange arcade to where local businessman John Swain has generously agreed to make a nearby store available at no charge as a place where food can be sorted.

"To get the scheme off the ground quickly, a number of council staff will then be involved for an hour or so, packing a family-sized amount of food into each tray."

Cr Kidd said the trays would then be delivered to the welfare agencies who will make them available to local families.

The food trays are being distributed by Foodcare, The Benevolent Society, Veritas House, Mission Australia, Housing Plus, Barnardos, Birrang, Orange Family Support and Choices at Home/Meals on Wheels.

He said families should contact these agencies directly.

"During the COVID-19 crisis, there are many more families and elderly residents who have to be isolated who could benefit from this scheme," he said.