Successful start for Dereham church’s Food Cabin

The Food Cabin in Dereham was set up last January by the Wellspring Family Centre project, and has been reflecting on a successful first year as it looks ahead to its second year of serving the local community. Tony Rothe reports.

Food Cabin is part of the Nourishing Norfolk Network. It offers affordable food items and toiletries to individuals in the Breckland area on a membership basis. The aim of the project is to support those “Just About Managing” with their finances, provide as many people as possible with affordable food, and support members through befriending, advice and connecting to other services. 
 
The project partners with a growing list of suppliers in order to provide products at a reduced cost, with a typical member saving 30% on their weekly shop, and there are usually some freebies too. It is aimed at those who do not necessarily meet the emergency criteria of the food bank. The team also offers wider support and will often sign-post to additional services such as budgeting, priority tariffs and cost of living support.
 
Toby Rouse, Food Cabin project manager, said, “There is a real community feel through the person-centred support; the team has even been able to help 3 members move home, installed a washing machine and arranged transport for a crucial hospital visit. It has over 100 members and plenty of room for more!”
 
The Food Cabin is located next to the Wellspring Family Centre, near the Mid Norfolk Foodbank’s Dereham distribution centre in Neatherd Road in Dereham, NR19 2AE. People can sign up through visiting the Cabin during opening hours - Wednesdays 10am - midday, Fridays 5pm – 7pm).
Or you can email: foodcabin@wfcdereham.org  or ops@wfcdereham.org
 
The photo above shows Jayne Olley, Cabin Coordinator, offering support to two customers, and is courtesy of the Food Cabin.

Do you have a news story or forthcoming event relating to Christians or a church in Mid Norfolk?  

If so, e-mail tony.rothe@networknorwich.co.uk with details and, if possible a suitable picture.