Families Can Save £200 a Month at Community Shop
Families living on the North Bransholme council estate in Hull are finding relief from financial strain thanks to a newly opened “social supermarket.” This community shop, located at the North Bransholme Community Centre, provides access to surplus food at incredibly low prices, making it a vital resource for local families.
Huge Savings on Monthly Grocery Bills
The community shop offers an impressive selection of food, with packs of fruit, vegetables, and bread available for as little as 20p each. Residents who receive means-tested benefits can apply for a free membership to benefit from the store, which estimates that families could save over £200 each month.
– Cost Efficiency: Products sold here are approximately one-third of the prices found in traditional supermarkets.
– Affordable Nutrition: Families can purchase healthy food options without breaking the bank, contributing to a balanced diet.
Real Stories from Local Shoppers
Kirsty Armstrong, a mother of two, emphasized how the shop alleviates the stress of grocery shopping. “Even though you work, it can still be really hard to buy the simplest items like fruit. I spent about £6 and filled my basket with bread, fruit, and items suitable for freezing.”
James Trott, aged 67 and a regular visitor, noted the financial relief the shop provides, especially for pensioners. “It helps me out being on a pension with all my bills to pay. I just bought a tin of beans for 60p, half the price compared to other stores.”
Tackling Food Waste and Supporting the Community
The community shop is the 15th location established by the Community Shop Group, a social enterprise dedicated to minimizing food waste. The store stocks products donated by food industry partners, allowing surplus goods to be sold at reduced prices without compromising quality.
– Product Range: The shop features around 600 products, with an average basket costing about 30% of the usual retail price.
– Healthy Choices: Approximately 30% of the goods available are fruits and vegetables, encouraging families to opt for nutritious food at low costs.
Gary Stott, the executive chairman of the Community Shop Group, highlighted the dual purpose of the shop: “We’re not only helping families in Bransholme but also addressing food waste. Surplus food can be relabeled and sold, ensuring it gets used rather than wasted.”
A Hub for the Community
Profits from the store are reinvested into a community hub aimed at skill development, accompanied by a café that serves affordable meals—breakfasts and lunches priced at just £1.50, with free meals for children all year round.
Carol Redfern shared her appreciation for the café, stating, “To be able to come here and get quality food cheaper means a lot, especially with my disabled mother living with me. It’s great that kids can eat for free.”
Alleviating Food Insecurity
Recent statistics reveal that over 700,000 individuals in Yorkshire and Humber faced hunger last year due to financial constraints, with one in ten living in food-insecure households. David Daniels, who is 73 and on disability benefits, expressed the necessity of the community store in today’s economy. “It helps a lot of people financially and reduces reliance on food banks. Here, you can purchase quality goods at reduced prices.”
In conclusion, the North Bransholme community shop is not just a grocery store; it’s a lifeline for families that could save them an astounding £200 a month. As it continues to flourish, the shop represents hope, resilience, and the power of community support in addressing food insecurity.