West Somerset Food Cupboard

The West Somerset Food Cupboard began as a Church-based project in 2007 and became an independent charity in 2022. Supported by over 50 volunteers the charity prepares free emergency non-perishable food parcels for those in greatest need in our community. Most of these are delivered by partner organisations as part of a package of support that is aimed at giving a hand-up a opposed to repeated hand-outs; some are delivered by our own volunteers. In addition, we operate a Local Pantry surplus food membership scheme every Tuesday for 40 households for up to six months each, costing £4 per week, in partnership with Fareshare South West and many local growers and producers. This service redirects tonnes of fresh food that would otherwise go to waste away from landfill and onto local dinner tables. As part of the service, we share recipes and offer cooking demos and taster sessions. Outcomes of both of the services that we provide include improved food security, healthier lifestyles and community engagement.