Struggling families are being invited to join the Island’s first community pantry where ‘members’ can enjoy an array of produce to keep their kitchens stocked up.
The food pantry runs every Tuesday from 13:30 until 15:30 and every Wednesday and Thursday from 10:30 until 12:30 at Community Spirited Cafe in Vectis Road, East Cowes.
The pantry aims to give those in need a helping hand by providing food at a lower price than can be found in supermarkets on a weekly basis.
Access to the pantry is by way of membership, and for a weekly contribution of £5, members receive food to a significantly higher value.
Since its launch last Tuesday, 44 residents have already signed up.
The Isle of Wight Council is coordinating the scheme through its successful connect4communities programme, with funding from the Department for Work and Pensions.
Jane Allchom, manager of the Community Spirited Cafe, said:
“When the council approached me about the funding available I knew the pantry would be a much-needed benefit for our community. We worked tirelessly to get this launched as soon as we could. The timing was perfect and the uptake went into double figures on the first day.
“The pantry offers a support service and we are always close to the teapot! We will signpost people to other services if they need additional help.
“We are affectionately know as the heart in East Cowes; the pantry is another addition to the many care and supportive services we offer.
“With the funding we have managed to employ one of our volunteers, which is such a lovely feeling.”
The East Cowes pantry was opened last week with Councillor Tracy Reardon, Mayor of East Cowes, cutting the ribbon.
2 other pantries at Oakfield Primary School, Ryde and Baby Box in Ventnor are on track to open soon.
Councillor Debbie Andre, Cabinet member for children’s services, said:
“I was delighted to be at the launch of our first Island community pantry in East Cowes.
“This would not have been possible without the perseverance and dedication of the team who have worked tirelessly to bring this initiative to the Island and the enthusiasm of Community Spirited, where the East Cowes Community Pantry is based.
“In addition, over time, the community pantries will be able to provide additional support to members. This is the first of several community pantries planned for the Island and delivers on the council’s commitment to reducing poverty, especially among families.”
If you are an organisation interested in opening a community pantry on the Island, contact Laura Hales, connect4communities project manager, by email on [email protected] or call 01983 821000.
Not sure how any councillor can say they are delighted to be at the launch of a community pantry… however well done to Jane and colleagues.
Well done all involved I’m sure it will be much used for the benefit of those who need it .
Wroxall Community Centre has been doing great thigs helping locals out for some time now, and have good things happening
When we used it once in wroxall the man was so rude watching what we had and told me only allowed 5 items for a family of 6 we felt so bad we walked out will never return I put £5-6 in pot as well as I don’t expect anything for nothing
great for the people on the dole that have all day to spare but what about the people that work all day and need to use the service?