Food pantries and larders across Portsmouth have been given a welcome boost thanks to a donation of £9,500, which will go towards keeping shelves stocked and families fed.
The grant, from construction company Sweet Projects, has been made to charity HIVE Portsmouth, which supports the opening and running of such facilities.
The money will be distributed across pantries and larders in the city.
Currently, there are seven pantries and larders operational in Portsmouth, based in Portsea, Paulsgrove, North End, Baffins, Cosham and Southsea, with two operating in Landport, and further pantries in the pipeline.
Lorna Reavley, Chief Officer of HIVE Portsmouth, said: “This donation is will make a big difference to those in Portsmouth who rely on food pantries and larders to keep their costs down.
“It’s thanks to the support of local people, organisations and wonderful businesses such as Sweet Projects that these essential facilities are able to continue to provide the vital support that they offer to those most in need.”
“We’re pleased to be able to support food pantries in the Portsmouth area through HIVE, helping alleviate food poverty during the cost of living crisis,’ said Tom Jacobs, Defence Director at Sweet Projects.
“This period in particular – after the festive break and moving through winter – can be a real struggle for the families and communities that need it most, and we’re keen to help support where we can.”
Food pantries and larders offer groceries for nominal fees for families who are looking to fill their fridges and cupboards in a more affordable way, and are a lifeline for many people who would otherwise struggle to afford the cost of groceries.
It’s also a more sustainable way of living, reducing food waste and its environmental impact.
Find your local pantry or larder, along with details of other services available in Portsmouth for those struggling with the cost of food, here: Help with food – Portsmouth City Council
NOTES TO EDITORS:
HIVE Portsmouth is a strategic partnership in Portsmouth consisting of a representative group of the voluntary and community sector, NHS bodies and Portsmouth City Council.
We work with local people, groups and organisations in a way that recognises and nurtures the strengths of individuals, families and communities and helps to build independence and self-reliance as an alternative to a reliance on traditional services.
We connect people and organisations to share, support and learn in order to meet the needs of individuals and are committed to working together with the objective of building a happier, healthier and more connected city.
