What is the North Yorkshire Council's food pantry scheme?

The North Yorkshire Council's scheme supports primary schools in hosting weekly food pantries to provide affordable groceries for families facing the cost of living crisis.

How much does a bag of groceries cost at these school food pantries?

A bag of groceries at these school food pantries costs a nominal £2 and includes essential items like bread and vegetables.

Are students involved in the school food pantries?

Yes, at schools like Malton Primary Academy, students actively participate by stocking shelves, pricing produce, and assisting customers.

Home / Education / Schools Feed Families: Food Pantries Offer Relief

Schools Feed Families: Food Pantries Offer Relief

2 Feb

•

Summary

Primary schools offer weekly food pantries for struggling families.
A bag of groceries costs £2, providing essential food items.
Students actively participate in stocking and managing school pantries.

Schools Feed Families: Food Pantries Offer Relief

Primary schools across North Yorkshire are now hosting weekly food pantries, a council-supported initiative designed to provide sustainable and affordable food for families. This program, launched in 2024, has expanded to include five schools, significantly impacting local communities.

At Selby's Barwic Parade Community Primary School, the pantry has become an "amazing resource," according to headteacher Sarah Dixon. She notes increasing weekly attendance, with parents relying on the provision for food security. A bag of groceries, containing items like bread and vegetables, costs a nominal £2.

The council facilitates the initial setup by connecting schools with food redistributors like Fareshare Yorkshire. This charity intercepts edible food that would otherwise go to waste, supplying it to various projects. Fareshare Yorkshire supports 380 projects and has observed a rise in school involvement over the past five or six years.