Unit-E – Wythenshawe Food Distribution Warehouse
‘Real Food Wythenshawe’ part of Wythenshawe Community Housing Group (WCHG) in partnership with the ‘The Food Poverty Group’ opened the doors to Unit-E, a food storage warehouse based in Wythenshawe.
Unit-E will hold and distribute to food banks across the entire Wythenshawe area, working with the Trussell Trust model. This has been the culmination of two years hard work and provided a real opportunity to make a difference in the Wythenshawe community. Utilising the model has resulted in a collaborative and sustainable approach, bringing people and organisations together to focus on, supporting individuals and families living in food poverty and addressing the long term solutions.
The Food Poverty Group was originally the brain child of the late Paul Goggins MP, who was passionate about making a difference and improving the lives of people in the Wythenshawe area. Following his death, in partnership with the Food Poverty Group, WCHG have continued to work together on this project and leave a lasting legacy for Paul’s vision for the area.
Adopting the Trussell Trust model for this project and working in collaboration with Fareshare, it will provide a more streamlined approach and reducing the potential ad hoc nature of food banks. With a bespoke referral system and data base in operation, will allow frontline professionals to make referrals to food banks ensuring those in crisis do not go hungry.
The management group of Unit-e have now registered it as a CIO (Charity Incorporated Organisation). The charity will support long term sustainability of the Unit and continue to seek additional funding.
What has been accomplished so far:
- 46k Grant funding for the refurbishment and running costs provided by Manchester City Council
- Brought in 7,000 kilos of food
- Raised £19,000 for renovations
- Distributed food to 7 food banks
- Completed 307 volunteer hours over 7 sessions
- Initiated recruitment of a warehouse worker
For more information on how to get involved or to signpost somoene in need please contact Jacqueline Naraynsingh Real Food Programme Manager Jacqueline.Naraynsingh@wchg.org.uk
or Pam Moran Real Food Cooking and Skills Coordinator Pamela.Moran@wchg.org.uk
