A grant of £1500 from the Connected Communities Fund has supported the purchase of a brand-new storage shed for Kennington Community Larder, providing a much needed, dedicated space to keep their provisions safe.
The Community Larder is run from St Swithin’s church and bulky food crates were being kept in the church as the previous shed was no longer fit for purpose.
The Larder was established three years ago as a joint project between the local primary school and church of St Swithin’s to promote environmental sustainability by selling food at a reduced cost that would otherwise be wasted. It also helps address the rising cost of living. Membership is open to everyone in the local community and has grown from 30 at the beginning to 126 today. Members pay a joining fee of £10 and then £4.50 for a weekly ‘top up’ shop that includes a varied offer of dried goods like pasta, cereals and snacks as well as refrigerated products, fresh fruit and vegetables. There is also a discretionary membership scheme with free places for those that need it.
An inclusive community space
Alongside the shop, a café providing refreshments and homemade cakes offers a valuable opportunity for people of all ages to sit and chat in a comfortable space. Parents with children drop in after school and many older people come to the larder on a weekly basis for social contact. Trained volunteers offer a friendly listening ear and can give practical help and advice. They are also able to keep a watchful eye on the more vulnerable members.
The generosity of volunteers
On the afternoon that I visited, people were already queuing up outside half an hour before it was due to open. The organiser told me that people deliberately come early so they can chat and share experiences and solve problems together. Inside, the food was easily accessible and there were plenty of volunteers of all ages on hand to help, including young people doing their Duke of Edinburgh award. Volunteers are valued and for this reason it is a very popular role. They currently have 30 people and a waiting list. One of the volunteers told me “they organised a surprise party for our Diamond wedding anniversary!”
Sitting in the café I heard from an older lady how much the Larder had become an integral part of her life. “It’s like a family to me. I come and get food and a cup of tea. I like the company.” She also added that volunteers had supported her and her husband when they were ill by taking them to hospital appointments.
The overall impression was of a thriving and inclusive community space.
Much more than just a food provision, the Larder has become a community asset that connects people, helps to prevent loneliness and isolation and builds community spirit and mutual aid. The new shed means that the larder can continue to run effectively, making a significant contribution to the local community.
Clare Dodwell, Community Development Officer, Community First Oxfordshire
The Connected Communities Fund, is being delivered in partnership by OCVA and Community First Oxfordshire and has been made available by Oxfordshire County Council.