Tackling Food
Insecurity
From one act of kindness on a cold winter night in 2021, Lucy's Pantry has blossomed into a beacon of hope, serving hundreds of community members with dignity, love, and the promise of food sovereignty.."
Lisa Lucy Gakunga, Founder
Our Story
Lucy’s Pantry began as a pop-up during the COVID-19 pandemic to address food insecurity and the rising cost-of-living crisis. By rescuing surplus food from local businesses and providing affordable groceries, we turned food waste into nourishment for our community.
Today, Lucy’s Pantry is much more than a community shop, it’s becoming a learning hub for food sovereignty. Through workshops and community initiatives, we empower people to take control of their food systems, from understanding where their food comes from to making informed, sustainable choices that support long-term resilience.
Built on love and generosity, Lucy’s Pantry offers dignity, support, and a sense of belonging. As we continue to confront food insecurity, we are cultivating a movement toward food sovereignty, ensuring our community not only survives but thrives.
Our Mission
Our mission is to confront food insecurity by providing access to healthy, affordable food, recognizing that food is a basic necessity for all. We aim to foster a sense of dignity and belonging in our community whilst:
Promoting Food Sovereignty: Empower individuals and families to take control of their food choices through education and engagement, fostering sustainable practices that benefit our community.
Reducing Food Waste: Rescue surplus food from local partners to ensure that no good food goes to waste, turning it into nourishment for those in need.
Building Community Resilience: Create a supportive environment where members can connect, share resources, and learn from one another, strengthening the fabric of our community.
Encouraging Healthy Living: Provide nutritious food options and educational workshops that inspire healthier choices and well-being for all.
Through these commitments, we strive to cultivate a thriving, inclusive community where everyone can access the food they need and feel valued.
Save Money
Build Community
Access Support
Reduce Waste
How it works
We make it simple and affordable for you to access nutritious food while supporting our community’s mission to tackle food insecurity and food waste. Here’s how it works:
Become a Member
To access Lucy’s Pantry, you need to become a member. Simply click here BECOME A MEMBER, fill out the application, and we’ll reach out once your membership is approved.
Pay from £5 per Shop
For as little as £5, members can receive a weekly shop valued at up to £25, filled with essential items like fresh fruits and vegetables, breakfast foods, cupboard staples, and toiletries. This ensures you have access to the necessities while keeping your costs low.
Pick Up Your Groceries
Once your membership is approved, you can visit Lucy’s Pantry on Tuesdays and Fridays between 11 AM - 2 PM
to pick up your weekly shop. Our friendly Pantry Hosts (volunteers from the community) are available to assist you in navigating the pantry and selecting from the available surplus food.
Get involved
Volunteer as a Pantry Host
If you’re looking to give back, consider volunteering as a Pantry Host. In this role, you’ll support fellow members by helping them navigate the pantry, sharing in the community spirit, and being part of a team dedicated to making a difference.
Become a Partner
We’re eager to collaborate with local organisations, businesses, and individuals who share our vision. If you’re interested in partnering with us to tackle food insecurity, reduce waste, or promote food sovereignty, we’d love to hear from you!
Support Our MissionYour support fuels our efforts to create a thriving community. Whether you contribute to our Community Jar, or contribute to our Pay It Forward initiative, organize food drives, or share our mission with others, every contribution matters. Together, we can make a lasting impact!
Community
Follow Our Journey of Impact and Inspiration #bluuprintcommunities
250 Members Supported
Every Hand Helps Us Grow
30 Volunteers
Involved
Uniting Hearts and Actions
3000kg
Food
Distributed
Milestones of Hope and Change