Local Pantry Food Stores

Access to good food and a sense of community are essential elements of a thriving society. Your Local Pantries are dedicated to providing both and more. With over 90,000 members across the UK, Pantries offer friendship, food, and freedom to those in need. These pantries focus on dignity, choice, and hope, allowing individuals to take control of their food choices and improve their overall well-being.

A Pantry is a member-run initiative that operates along cooperative lines, with many volunteers also being members themselves. It is open to all, and there is no need for a referral; anyone living in the area served by a Pantry can join. Members have the flexibility to participate for as long as they wish, attending every week or occasionally as needed.

Pantries offer an extensive selection of top-quality food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen and chilled items, meat, dairy products, and long-life tinned and packaged goods. Members pay a small weekly subscription and, in return, can choose groceries worth significantly more, potentially saving up to £1,000 a year on their shopping bills.

Just like a regular shop, Pantries allow members to select the food they need from the shelves. The stores are managed by uniformed staff and volunteers who utilise hand-held technology for efficient operations.

Beyond being a food distribution centre, each Pantry holds a special role as a neighbourhood hub. They serve as a springboard for other initiatives and ideas, such as cookery classes, volunteering opportunities, and training programs. This multifaceted approach enhances the sense of community and empowerment among members, fostering a supportive and enriching environment for all involved.