We hear many stories of poverty and hardship, with people struggling to feed individuals and families because of rising prices.
The Food Bank has helped, and continues to help, many families in short-term emergencies, but for some families the cost of living crisis goes on from week to week. The Food Bank is still in existence for those emergencies, but the Food Pantry is different. People become members and pay a small subscription of a few pounds a shop. In return they can choose non-perishable food and toiletries worth many times more, and could save up to £1,000 a year on shopping bills. And the pantry is just like a shop, in that you choose the food you want from the shelves.
The pantry operates in the Wesley Centre, part of Unity Methodist Church, and to become a member at present, people need to be referred by a local agency such as a housing association, childen's centre, Social Services, Citizens Advice, NHS health centre, primary school.
The pantry's stock comes from donations, including from churches' and schools' Harvest Services. It is staffed by volunteers from the churches and the local community.
For more information, please email sandbachpantry@gmail.com or telephone 07754 557903
"071231 groceries" by Dan4th is licensed under CC BY 2.0.