The affordable grocery store that has provided a lifeline for people in Wythenshawe is preparing to open three new sites across Greater Manchester.
Founded by charity The Message Trust, The Community Grocery allows members to do a large food shop for only £3 per visit, saving up to £40 a time.
It aims to bridge the gap between supermarkets - which can be too expensive for many - and food banks, giving people dignity and autonomy as well as access to vital nutrition.
Hundreds of families have visited the flagship Wythenshawe site, which is stocked with the same branded items you'd find in a supermarket.
The project has been such a success that the charity is now opening new sites in Salford, Bolton and Wigan, as well as others across the north of England.
Produce, which includes fresh fruit and veg, tinned goods, baked items, frozen food, sanitary and household items, and even potted plants, is donated by local suppliers and supermarkets.
Some food is donated because of packaging errors, other items are nearing their use-by date, and all has been saved from heading to landfill.
Membership costs just £5 per year and is reserved for local residents who are struggling with the financial impact of Covid-19.
Stock changes daily depending on what's been donated, but as a general rule of thumb each £3 food shop will include one sliced loaf of bread, five portions of fruit and veg, five shelf items, two fridge items, two frozen items, two mix and match items, one non-food item and one item of PPE.
Members are able to visit twice per week and choose their own produce for their families.
They also have access to a range of services including employment clubs, mental wellbeing courses and youth clubs.
The new sites of Community Grocery will open at The Mill in Bolton, Victory Outreach in Salford, and The Edge in Wigan.
The Message Trust is welcoming volunteers either to help in The Community Grocery, or to lead careers workshops or similar.
You can find out more or make a donation at www.message.org.uk, or visit The Community Grocery's website at communitygrocery.org.uk.
