Families Can Save £200 a Month at Community Shop
A New Resource for the Bransholme Community
Families living in Bransholme, Hull, are finding a much-needed lifeline at a newly opened social supermarket designed to help them make ends meet. The community shop, located at the North Bransholme Community Centre, specializes in selling surplus food at remarkably low prices. Here’s how this initiative is making a difference:
– Affordable Prices: Packs of fruit, vegetables, and bread can be purchased for as little as 20p. This pricing structure can significantly reduce grocery bills.
– Eligibility: The shop is open to anyone residing in the area who receives means-tested benefits. To shop, individuals must apply for a free membership.
– Estimated Savings: On its opening day, the shop attracted hundreds of visitors, with estimates suggesting families could save over £200 each month on their grocery expenses.
Real Stories from the Community
Kirsty Armstrong, a mother of two, shared how the community shop alleviates the burden of grocery shopping:
I’ve spent about £6 and got bread, fruit, and items I can freeze. Even though you work, it can be hard to buy the simplest things.
James Trott, 67, echoed similar sentiments as he became one of the shop’s first customers:
It’s a huge help for those of us on pensions, especially with so many bills to manage. I bought a tin of beans for 60p—double the price elsewhere.
A Sustainable Approach to Food Waste
The new shop is the 15th location established by the Community Shop Group, a social enterprise dedicated to combating food waste.
– Product Sourcing: All products sold are sourced from food industry partners, consisting of surplus stock that is still within use-by dates.
– Savings Beyond Price: Gary Stott, the executive chairman, emphasized the dual mission of supporting local families and tackling food waste:
Our retail store offers 600 product lines, with average basket spends around 30% of the standard retail prices—allowing families to save £212 a month.
Community Impact and Support Services
In addition to affordable groceries, the community shop is committed to reinvesting profits into local initiatives.
– Skill Development: The funds will support a community hub aimed at helping members learn new skills.
– Community Kitchen and Café: The café offers breakfast and lunch for just £1.50, along with free meals for children throughout the year.
Carol Redfern expressed her gratitude:
Being able to get quality food at lower prices means a lot, especially since I care for my disabled mum and our finances are tight.
Addressing Regional Food Insecurity
Statistics from the Trussel Trust reveal a concerning reality: over 700,000 individuals in Yorkshire and Humber faced hunger last year due to financial constraints, with one in ten considered food insecure. David Daniels, 73, shared his perspective:
This community store is essential in today’s economy. It provides quality goods at reduced prices and can relieve pressure on food banks.
Conclusion: A Step Toward Food Security
As the Bransholme community continues to embrace this vital resource, families can look forward to more affordable grocery options—saving them an estimated £200 each month. The community shop stands as a beacon of hope, making healthy food more accessible while tackling the pressing issue of food waste. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about building a stronger, more resilient community.