An innovative e-cargo bike delivery service is supporting the Island's network of community pantries by providing pedal power for home deliveries.
Keert, the community interest company launched by Matt Whittaker last year, is supporting vulnerable residents by delivering groceries and other essential supplies to their doorstep.
The new partnership is helping to provide affordable food to Islanders who would otherwise struggle to access the community pantries at East Cowes, Ventnor, Ryde and Newport, either through mobility issues or anxiety.
The community pantry scheme provides access to groceries at a lower cost than supermarkets or shops, as well as dealing with food waste.
Anyone can access a community pantry, they just need to sign up to become a member.
For a small weekly contribution, community pantry members can access significant savings on their weekly food shop. For example, a £5 voucher equates to more than £15 in groceries. The range of food available changes on a weekly basis.
The Island's pantries have been set up with the support of the Isle of Wight Council's connect4communities cost-of-living support project, funded by the Department for Work and Pensions Household Support Fund.
Laura Hales, who leads the Island programme, said:
"We'd really like to thank Matt and his team of riders for going the extra mile to support some of our most vulnerable residents.
"Their deliveries mean we can reach those who cannot make their way to the community pantries for health or mobility reasons, and in a way which reduces carbon emissions and raises awareness of alternative transport options."
Since starting up last year, the Keert rider team has travelled more than 12,000 miles, completing almost 9,000 deliveries, moving a total of around 42,250 kg of goods — with zero accidents.
They are currently appealing for more volunteer riders to be able to offer a similar service to other Island charities at no direct charge to them.
Matt said:
"By becoming a volunteer rider you get a full body workout without the cost of signing up to a gym, while at the same time helping people and giving something back to the community.
"We provide training so you are confident in riding the e-cargo bikes safely.
"Moving services from motor vehicles to cargo bikes makes sense for everyone — it helps reduce traffic, improve air quality and reduce noise."
If you would be interested in finding out more about volunteering, or for more information about Keert, please visit: https://keert.uk/
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