The voluntary grocery group, based on Sandy Lane, Accrington and Rossendale College, has been opening its doors for people to collect groceries for more than three years.
The Food Share Group is proud to have saved more than 25,000 kg of food – or 25 tons – that would otherwise be destined for landfill.
It came about after a conversation between Charlotte Scheffmann, Dean of Higher Education, and facility worker James Crane and has seen an increase in demand since the Covid crisis.
Charlotte said, “Accrington and Rossendale College are buying groceries from FareShare, a nonprofit that aims to reduce food waste and alleviate food poverty. This is our way of helping the environment, contributing to sustainability and also giving back to our local community.
“During the pandemic we have seen an increase in the number of people using the food group and it is really important that people know that they are happy to use this service regardless of their personal circumstances. Come along to help the environment, save food from the landfill, and feed your family. “
The grocery group is open every Wednesday from 9.15 a.m. to 11.00 a.m. 50 weeks a year and only closes at Christmas and New Years.
People are invited to show up at the college entrance on Sandy Lane and walk down the right side of the building where smiling volunteers are ready to help.
Kyle, the food group coordinator, said, “The food group is really easy to use. People come with their empty shopping bags and we fill them with a wide variety of groceries … from fresh fruit to frozen fries! There are different items each week, and while donations are welcome to keep the service running, we do not ask for anything in return. “
Alex, the food group volunteer, added, “There are no barriers to visit us, no questions asked, no details taken. In addition to the locals, we also have students and staff who use the food group, and on average we help around 15 families every Wednesday. “
As part of the Community Champions Initiative, the Hyndburn Borough Council is working to highlight and celebrate the fantastic work that so many organizations across the district are doing while making sure residents know how to access help when they need it.
Lyndsey Sims, Project Leader, Hyndburn Community Champions said, “This amazing group at Accrington and Rossendale College existed long before the pandemic and has grown even further after the demand increased last year.
“Well done to everyone involved, especially to the volunteers who are putting their time into this great cause and to the college that chose to invest this way.”
More information about the Hyndburn Community Champions Initiative can be found at: www.hyndburnbc.gov.uk/communitychampions/
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