We were proud to support Community Roots CIC in launching the new Westgate Community Pantry and Hub at 106 Westgate Street, Gloucester, on Friday 24 October.
The Hub will offer a community food shop providing fresh produce and store cupboard essentials at reduced prices to support residents experiencing food hardship. It will operate as a membership scheme and social enterprise, offering healthy, affordable food for the local community, run by the local community.
The Westgate Hub also includes a Social Action Hub, a space for local residents and organisations to come together, learn community organising skills, and access wraparound support such as financial advice. Volunteers will have the opportunity to gain training in food handling, retail, and social enterprise management.
Volunteers from Young Gloucestershire spent 10 days painting and decorating the space alongside Community Roots and local residents. Kevin Mannion, King’s Trust Team Leader at Young Gloucestershire said: “It’s important for our young people to get involved in community projects like this. It helps them feel part of the city and make a real difference. They’ve worked hard and will be able to see the fruits of their labour every time they walk past the Hub.”
“Westgate needs a place where people can come together and get support with food and everyday challenges. This hub will offer local residents the opportunity to get practical help, learn new skills and get involved, and it will be a space where they can socialise and connect,” said Deb Baker, Director of Community Roots CIC.
“By opening up this space in Westgate, we’re backing a project that puts the community in the lead,” said Guy Stenson, Chief Executive of GCH. “It’s about trust, dignity, and giving people the chance to use their talents to promote inclusion, tackle food poverty and build something lasting together.”
Partners involved:
Community Roots CIC
Gloucester City Homes
Fare Share SW
We Are Project Grow CIC
We CultivAte CIC
Nourishing Gloucester
Local community and residents groups
