Islanders struggling against rising costs will soon be able to join a new food pantry scheme where members can enjoy an array of produce to keep their kitchens stocked up.
The Island’s first community pantries are set to open in Ryde, East Cowes and Ventnor, giving those in need a helping hand by getting food at a lower rate on a weekly basis.
Items found in the pantry will be a range of fresh, frozen, tinned and dry food; which will change on a weekly basis. Access to the community pantry is by way of membership, and for a small weekly contribution, members receive food to a significantly higher value.
The Isle of Wight Council is spearheading the scheme through its successful connect4communities programme, with funding from the Department for Work and Pensions.
Cllr Debbie Andre, Cabinet lead for childrens’ services, said:
“For a contribution of around £5 per weekly visit, a member will receive over £15 worth of fresh, frozen and general food.
“Anyone can have access to their local community pantry but they will need to sign up to become a member, directly with the pantry.
"If you are a community organisation such as a school, charity or group and would like help in setting up a pantry – please get in touch with us, we would love to hear from you.”
The first three pantries will be located at Oakfield Primary School, Ryde; Community Spirited, East Cowes; and Baby Box in Ventnor.
Funding is available to set up more pantries and the council is keen for community groups and organisations to apply.
Organisations interested in opening a community pantry on the Island should contact Laura Hales, connect4communities project manager by email at [email protected] or by calling 821000.
Further details and an application form can be found on the connect4communities webpage.
While connect4communities will oversee the initial setup of the pantries, the successful groups will manage the day to day running.
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