New Charity Shop Aims to Reduce Food Poverty Stigma
A charity shop has opened in Okehampton, Devon, with the goal of reducing the stigma associated with food poverty by offering good food, dignity, and choice to those in need.
The Affordable Food Shop enables individuals who would typically rely on the town's food bank to select items for free using credit vouchers, rather than receiving pre-packed parcels, according to the organizers.
Innovative Model Led by Experienced Founder
The initiative is led by Rebecca Green, founder of the Okehampton Community Kitchen and Foodbank, who believes this model is a first of its kind in the UK.
Ms Green explained that the project aims to reduce stigma, alleviate pressure on food banks, and support people facing financial difficulties.
With around 30 years of involvement in food projects locally and nationally, Ms Green manages the Community Kitchen, food bank, and the Affordable Food Shop with the assistance of 16 volunteers ranging in age from 14 to 79.
Shop Details and Operations
The shop operates from premises leased from the Royal British Legion and sells fresh and tinned food along with household goods at low prices, all without judgment.
Staff describe the shop as functioning similarly to a charity clothes shop but for food. Stock includes surplus items purchased at reduced cost from organizations such as Fareshare South West.
"I come from a background where we did not have food security. I know how much something like this would have meant to my mum.
"I lost my mum when she was 38, so just knowing other families don't have to go through what she went through motivates me."
Ms Green noted that while traditional food parcels remain available, many people now prefer to shop using vouchers.
"They can come in, use their credit and choose what they actually want.
"It gives people dignity, hope and choice, while also helping to reduce food waste."
Community Support and Volunteer Perspectives
Trustee and volunteer Maggy Whitehouse highlighted that the shop represents a return to community-based support.
"We used to live in communities where people helped each other automatically, but now we might not even know our neighbours.
"I've been so broken financially that I would have gone down on my knees for a food bank. Something like this would have been a godsend, so it's a privilege to be part of it."
Customer Experience and Impact
One of the shop's first customers, Suzie Roberts, expressed hope that the concept would expand to other towns.
"There's a stigma around food banks, especially for people who work full-time and still struggle. Here, there's no judgement — I think it's wonderful."
Staff stated that all funds raised by the shop would be reinvested to support individuals unable to afford food.
Follow BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.
