Bexley Councillors Visited Mind in Bexley’s Community Pantry

Three Bexley Councillors visited our Bexley Community Pantry today, Friday 11th July, to see first-hand how the project is supporting local residents during challenging times, and to provide a donation.

The visit highlighted the vital role that the Pantry plays in helping people stretch their budgets and access essential food items.

Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE (the Leader of Bexley Council), Cllr Janice Ward-Wilson and Cllr Chris Taylor all represent Crook Log ward and the Councillors chose the Bexley Community Pantry to be a beneficiary of the Mayor’s Fund, and presented a cheque for £500 to Mind in Bexley.

We would like to thank them for the donation – which will be used to help ensure that more families and individuals can benefit from affordable food options when they need it most.

Located next door to the Mind in Bexley office on Devonshire Road, the Pantry operates as a community food store for anyone finding it difficult to afford everyday essentials. For just £4, members can select fresh, tinned and ready meal foods worth up to £20 — helping to make every penny go further.

Cllr Baroness O’Neill of Bexley OBE said: “We are delighted that Mind in Bexley is in our ward – Crook Log. We’ve had a fantastic tour this morning, seen all the great work that goes on and met some of the clients. We’ve also seen the important work that is going on in both buildings at Mind and how it really helps Bexley residents. What really resonated with me was that not only does the Pantry provide food, but also the support that the staff were giving as well.”

Cllr Chris Taylor praised the dedication of local volunteers: “The work of volunteers at the Pantry is fantastic, so community-minded and helping out their neighbours in Bexley. The concept of paying a nominal amount helps people’s dignity as people are paying towards their own shopping and it’s not charity.”

Cllr Janice Ward-Wilson added: “The Community Pantry is an excellent model that provides dignity along with provisions for people who might find themselves in time of need.”

The Mind in Bexley Community Pantry aims not only to reduce food shopping bills but also to build a sense of community, ensuring everyone who walks through its doors feels supported and respected.

The Pantry is open every Friday from 9am–4pm at:
301c Broadway, Bexleyheath DA6 8DT

For more information about how to access the Pantry or support its work, please visit our webpage here: mindinbexley.org.uk/pantry