East Suffolk Council
Helping people access affordable food
Community groups, organisations and town and parish councils are invited to apply for funding to help provide affordable food to East Suffolk residents in need.
Supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), the East Suffolk Pantries Grant Scheme is a three-year programme which aims to fund the initial set up of community pantries across the district, helping people in need to access affordable food in their local community.
The pantries will provide a welcoming space, similar to a shop, where people can pay a subscription of less than £5 per week and receive food worth at least £15 in return. Pantries can also provide additional support, signposting to other local services and help to reduce social isolation.
Following a successful first round, the second round of funding applications is now open. Grants of up to £4,500 are available and applications close on 30 June.
Nicole Rickard, Head of Communities at East Suffolk Council said: “Due to rising costs, we know that many people are struggling to buy essential food items and increasing numbers of people are visiting local foodbanks. Community pantries help to ease the pressure on foodbanks whilst ensuring those who are struggling can continue to access affordable food and we would encourage local groups and organisations to find out more about the process by attending our online information session later this month.
Pantry providers will become part of the East Suffolk Food Network, bringing together organisations providing both affordable food, and food in times of crisis. The network will be used to share best practice, gain support and manage access to surplus food to ensure fairness in distribution.
Applications are welcome from community and voluntary groups, organisations and town and parish councils.
Full details about how to apply.
An online information session for prospective applicants takes place on Thursday 25 May (11.30am - 12.30pm) on Microsoft Teams. To book a place, please email gemma.fraser@eastsuffolk.gov.uk
In December, East Suffolk Council was allocated £2.75m from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) which will be used to support high streets, local businesses, workforce and community skills development, as well as support for those struggling with the cost-of-living crisis.
East Suffolk Council understands the pressures faced by many people today and is working closely with partners and stakeholders to ensure support is available to help ease the squeeze for households in East Suffolk.