Warrington Food Pantry, which had to close in March 2020, is a joint venture between the council, Warrington Foodbank, and local housing providers, Clarion Futures of Clarion Housing Group, and Torus.

The pantry, based at Fearnhead Youth and Community Centre, has re-opened its doors to support people living in the local area who may be struggling to buy food due to low income, or those in receipt of certain benefits.

The scheme supports people by providing groceries, including fresh and healthy produce, with menu cards to encourage people to cook healthy, filling meals for their families. There are also opportunities to attend community cooking sessions to share ideas and tips for cooking on a budget.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for housing, public health and wellbeing, and Chair of the Warrington Food Pantry group, said: “We’re delighted that the Food Pantry is back open after having to close due to COVID restrictions. We can now continue to support people who find it challenging to budget for food enough food to feed their families each week.

“The pantry provides temporary relief to help people who may otherwise go hungry, with the longer-term aim to offer a supportive environment where members can develop their confidence with budgeting and cooking healthy meals.

People can be referred to the pantry by the council and local partners, including the Warrington Wellbeing service, Torus, Clarion, Citizens Advice Bureau and local GPs. Once registered, service users can pay a weekly £2.50 membership fee, which entitles them to choose a basket of 10 items of food worth up to £20.

The pantry is open on a Wednesday and Thursday, 10am to 2pm at Fearnhead Youth and Community Centre on Insall Road, but is currently only available by appointment only.

COVID cleaning regulations are in place, with hand sanitiser available.

Find more information on the Food Pantry on the My Life Warrington website.