A new community larder opens at South Oxford Centre, backed by SOFEA, aiming to support locals with food access.
The community center is a lively place that hosts art shows, a café, and a farmers’ market. The new larder helps people get access to food.
Some locals find it difficult to reach other larders located in Rose Hill and Oxford City. The new larder aims to better serve these individuals.
Community larders function like pop-up shops, providing access to surplus food. They also connect people with other services and create opportunities for community engagement.
Michelle Plaisted-Kerr manages the larder and recognized a significant opportunity. The council approached the center with the idea of establishing a larder.
After hard work to prepare, the larder currently has eleven members. The hope is that more people will join, with social media helping spread the word.
Dee Gabbidon, from Oxford City Council, suggested opening a larder after she knew about the community fridge there. She is very happy about the opening because the area really needed it.
Many single and vulnerable people live in the area, and hostels are located nearby. The larder builds community spirit, and the center itself is the heart of the area.
Dr. Saman Jamshidifard, a SOFEA trustee, believes Hinksey Park is a great location for the larder. It opens on Thursdays from 2 pm to 4 pm, providing access for families.
Ten people came at first. SOFEA expects to see 200 people in two years. They help young, at-risk people through education and job assistance and also runs other community larders.
The charity spoke about the hope that the larder gives food and offers support. It can also provide a friendly place, too.