connect4communities and the Hampshire Libraries Service are working together to introduce community pantries within Ringwood library. The Southern Co-op Community Team has also joined the partnership to support with the pantries’ setup.
What are Community Pantries?
Community pantries offer people access to a range of food products for a small weekly membership contribution and enable them to receive food of a significantly higher value. Pantries can provide wraparound support services, organise activities and opportunities for social interaction for all their members.
The community pantries work well by listening to their local communities and providing the services and activities to meet their needs. They all offer a friendly and safe space for their members, creating an environment that encourages a feeling of inclusion and belonging.
Would your organisation or group like to join this project to establish and run one of these pantries and benefit your local area?
You won’t be alone in doing it, you will have the support of Hampshire’s Community Pantry Network, Hampshire County Council’s Community Pantry Coordinator, Hampshire Libraries and the Southern Co-op Community Team who are ready to support you through the process.
If you want to find out more and have any questions, please email [email protected] and ask to speak to the Hampshire County Council Community Pantry Coordinator.