Colchester residents are benefitting from easier access to affordable food and vital support services, thanks to a new mobile community supermarket.
The new service has been made possible through £20,000 funding from Colchester City Council, providing a one-off contribution towards the purchase of a delivery vehicle. The funding supports Colchester Community Supermarket to bring affordable groceries directly to neighbourhoods.
The vehicle enables the Community Supermarket to collect 40% more surplus food and other donations from local supermarkets. While much of this is distributed free through the Community Fridge network, suitable items are sold at heavily discounted prices, increasing the range of affordable products available. The van has also enabled the team to regularly source stock from a charitable wholesale warehouse in Harlow, expanding both the quantity and variety of items on offer.
Volunteers play an important role in supporting the mobile community supermarket. Marcus and Itunu generously give their time to support the project and say they find volunteering rewarding for their mental wellbeing, as it gives them the opportunity to meet and chat with people in the community.
Elizabeth Alake-Akinyemi, Community Outreach Manager (Voluntary) of Divine Assembly Ministries said: “The vehicle has transformed what we can offer. We are collecting more surplus food, reaching new communities and supporting people who otherwise would not be able to access our services. Residents have reported significant savings on their grocery bills, helping to ease financial pressures during the ongoing cost of living crisis. We are extremely grateful to Colchester City Council, the Boaz Project Community Fridge and Feeding Britain for helping make this initiative a reality.”
Cllr David King, Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Communities and Public Protection said: "The new mobile supermarket is a fantastic example of how partnership working can make a real difference to local people. By bringing affordable food and essential support directly into communities, the initiative is helping residents through the cost-of-living challenges.”
The project is looking for local venues and volunteers to help bring the mobile supermarket to more communities and neighbourhood. Community centres, churches and other organisations with a suitable space are encouraged to get involved. Volunteers who can give their time to support the project are also warmly welcomed.