Poole Waste Not Want Not (PWNWN), offer various types of support to ensure that individuals and families facing financial hardship can access affordable food. Our services work alongside other food support networks in Poole, helping at different stages of need. Here’s a breakdown of the different food support services:

Food Banks

Food banks are designed for individuals or families in immediate crisis who cannot afford food. They typically provide enough food to last at least three days. Food banks like Jimmys (we are a satellite to Poole Food Bank) offer this emergency support to ensure no one goes hungry during times of financial distress. Referrals are usually needed, and the food provided is meant to cover necessities.

Community Fridges

Community fridges are open to everyone and focus on reducing food waste by redistributing surplus food within the local community. These fridges do not require any form of financial assessment or membership; anyone can access them to share or collect food that might otherwise go to waste. They are a great resource for those who want to supplement their food supply while helping reduce waste.

Pantries and Social Supermarkets

Pantries and social supermarkets offer more choices than food banks and are focused on providing affordable food in a more dignified shopping experience.

Pantries may ask for a small membership fee, allowing individuals to access a broader range of food items at reduced prices. They often provide greater choice compared to food banks and may not require a crisis- code to access them.

Social Supermarkets like PWNWN are free to join if you meet the criteria for membership. PWNWN, for example, allows members to buy food at significantly reduced prices or free in extreme cases.

Why We Do What We Do

The cost-of-living crisis has deepened the financial struggles faced by many individuals and families in the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) area. As prices rise, we are seeing a growing need for affordable food options. At Poole Waste Not Want Not (PWNWN), we recognise that financial hardship often extends beyond food insecurity. That’s why we aim to address not just the immediate need for affordable food, but also the underlying issues that affect people’s long-term well-being.

We believe it’s essential to take the time to understand each person’s unique situation. By offering support through our social supermarket, we not only provide discounted food but also help people regain their confidence and self-sufficiency. We offer services like menu planning, cooking demonstrations, and access to energy-efficient equipment to help people make the most of their resources.

For those looking to rebuild their skills and return to work, volunteering with us is an opportunity to gain qualifications, job experience, and confidence. By partnering with local job centres and businesses, we also offer job trials for our volunteers, helping them transition back into employment. This holistic approach helps the most vulnerable not just survive but thrive, giving them a chance to improve their lives for the long term.

We are committed to empowering people to offer them the tools and support they need to overcome their challenges and build a better future.

Each service plays a unique role in supporting those in need, from crisis support at food banks to sustainable, affordable options at pantries and social supermarkets. Together, these services help people through different stages of hardship, ensuring that everyone can access the food and support they need

For more information on services near you go to the Access to Food Map.

For more information about the Community Resource Pop Up, contact erika@poolewnwn.co.uk or phone 01202 402818. Refreshments and children’s activities are available.