York charity to launch new community pantry - as local businesses urged to support

York based charitable organisation Keeping Digital Foundation are forming a new sister organisation, York Pantry, which will be located in the York City Centre, and will be open throughout the week, not only acting as a Pantry, but also providing vital services to the community, including Keeping Digital Foundation's Digital Cafe.

York based charitable organisation Keeping Digital Foundation are forming a new sister organisation, York Pantry, which will be located in the York City Centre, and will be open throughout the week, not only acting as a Pantry, but also providing vital services to the community, including Keeping Digital Foundation's Digital Cafe. 

It will form part of the Your Local Pantry network, and will be York's first branch, with the Keeping Digital Foundation working to make it a central hub for the community, with new volunteering roles created across the city alongside the organisation's rapid expansion this year.

Pantries soften the blow of high living costs, and create the conditions for communities to grow and thrive, by bringing people together around food. 

Everybody should have access to good food. Everybody values community. Your Local Pantries provide both – and more. Across the UK, 80,000 people are finding friendship, food and freedom through Pantry membership. Pantries are all about dignity, choice and hope. Each one operates as a member-led neighbourhood hub, often serving as a springboard to other community initiatives, opportunities and ideas. As we all strive for a brighter future, Pantries are an immediate big step in the right direction, loosening poverty’s grip and creating the breathing space for communities to pursue ambitious goals. 

For just £3.50 each week, local residents can join up as members and access a whole range of benefits. You’ll be able to choose a guaranteed 10 items from a huge variety of groceries, fresh fruit and veg plus all the usual store cupboard favourites. The average shopping basket is worth more than £20 at retail value, saving you up to £1000 on your food bill each year! 

Nationwide facts about Pantries

• £ 780 saved each year by a household visiting the Pantry each week
• 40000 adults and children live in households that are members of a Pantry
• 95 % of members say joining a Pantry has improved their financial situation
• 93 % of members say the Pantry helps them to meet people and socialise

York Pantry is now looking for business partners to help fund the launch of the new organisation, with an initial launch date of Spring 2023.

By donating £100+ to the York Pantry project, local businesses will become an official partner. The York Pantry will also form a nationwide network of other pantries, and the stock will be replenished with the support of the membership fees and a national distributor partner. The organisation is looking for local businesses who are able to provide some regular stock of fresh fruit and vegetables to the Pantry.

Local businesses can get in touch via email at yorkpantry@keepingdigital.org.uk

People can find out about the new project on the Keeping Digital Foundation website https://www.keepingdigital.org.uk/york-pantry/.