Community pantries offer access by membership to a range of food products, for a small weekly contribution you will receive food to a significantly higher value. Pantries organise activities, provide wraparound support services and opportunities for social interaction for all of their members. They all offer a friendly and safe space for all their users, creating an environment that encourages a feeling of inclusion and belonging.
There are now 21 community pantries – one of which is a travelling pantry – with more planning to join the network soon, that have been set up across Hampshire providing access to discounted food. In addition, there are 13 locations that are being served by a mobile larder operated by FareShare.
Community pantries provide groceries at a lower cost than supermarkets or shops, offering a range of fresh, frozen and general foods which can change on a weekly basis. In addition, the pantries are working to help reduce food waste by working with local food businesses.
Who can use a community pantry?
Anyone can access their local community pantry - all it takes is to sign up as a member, which then allows you to use the community pantry once a week. Community pantries aim to support those in financial hardship, food vulnerability and in need of community support but there are no criteria that must be met and there is no referral system. The membership process is managed through the pantry directly, please contact or visit your local pantry to become a member.
Coming soon: New pantry at Pilands Wood Community Association in Eastleigh – check back for details.
The following pantries are part of the Hampshire Community Pantry Network. Other options may also be available in your area – see Connect to Support Hampshire for information, selecting the ‘Help with food’ option. This link also includes details of food bank services in Hampshire.
Basingstoke & Deane
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Popley Fields Food Pantry
Popley Fields Community Centre, Carpenters Down, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 9AE
