Windermere Community Larder
Turning Food Waste into Community Support
A new community initiative is transforming how local households access good food while helping tackle the region’s growing food waste problem. The Windermere Community Larder launched in November by Windermere & District Foodbank is run by a group of dedicated volunteers.
The Larder offers a simple, sustainable idea: anyone in the community can come along, fill a bag with fresh fruit, vegetables and cupboard staples, and make a recommended £5 donation (though donations are not essential). It is open to everyone, regardless of age, employment status or income.
Much of the food available through the Larder comes from FareShare, surplus donations from local supermarkets, and food that is close to its use by date or destined for landfill. Instead of being thrown away, this perfectly good food is now being used to support local families.
Together we can save money, reduce waste, and support one another.
This means:
- Healthy, nutritious food for local households
- Less waste going to landfill
- A greener, more sustainable Windermere
With rising costs, the Larder is proving a welcome resource for many who simply want to stretch their weekly shop a little further.
This isn’t a foodbank visit or a handout – it’s a community coming together. This project encourages local residents to think beyond just their own needs. Visitors may pick up a bag for an elderly neighbour, a friend who can’t get out, or a family member who might benefit but isn’t on social media.
“This is what community looks like,” says Amanda Lucas from the volunteer team. “It’s people supporting each other, preventing waste and making sure good food doesn’t end up in the bin”.
Support beyond food
At each Larder event there are details of how to access a local Citizens Advice service, offering free walk in support, including help with:
- Finances and budgeting
- Housing or tenancy concerns
- Benefits advice
- Energy bills and support services
This ensures that the Larder becomes not just a place to pick up food, but a friendly space where people can access support and information when they need it most.
Everyone is welcome
You don’t need to be on benefits, struggling financially, or of a certain age to come along. The project is about sustainability, community and making everyday life a little easier.
Next events
The Windermere Community Larder events are held at Marchesi Centre, Holly Road, Windermere.
They take place every second and fourth Friday of the month.
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Thank you to all of the organisations and individuals who provide food donations and to all of the volunteers who generously give up their time to make this possible.
If you’re a local business who would like to support this project, please get in touch with Amanda Lucas at info@windermeredistrict.foodbank.org.uk.
