Food and Nutrition
We believe that food is essential for wellbeing, a fundamental component of good health and a fabulous social tool. We incorporate food into all our activities and support people to access subsidised food, to have the skills to prepare nutritious meals on a budget and the knowledge to make informed food choices. Underpinning these activities is an emphasis on good nutrition.
Community Pantry
We run a community pantry twice a week from the Wellbeing Centre, providing free fruit and vegetables, period products and bread. For £3.50 pantry members can also choose from the selection of groceries, toiletries and fridge items. Anyone living in Merthyr Tydfil can be a member of the pantry, we have over 150 members and a waiting list. We receive food from Fare share and Warburtons, In Kind and Neighbourly. The pantry is a vital support for families and individuals on low incomes. We are a member of the Feeding Britain network, working with others to prevent food insecurity. Find out more about the Community Pantry here.
Cooking Activities
Our Community Wellbeing Officer delivers both adult and youth cooking sessions, weekly that are funded by the National Lottery Community Fund. These free classes run for 6 weeks throughout the year and are open to anyone living in Merthyr Tydfil. We teach a wide variety of cooking skills to the community with a focus on making food from scratch and using fresh and low-cost ingredients. Wherever possible, we incorporate our pantry food items into these menus so that the recipes can be cooked at home, are cost effective and sustainable to the environment. In the winter months we offer a warm space for the community, using pantry ingredients to provide nutritious, hot snacks.
Food in The Community
Throughout the year we celebrate the community at events that are fun and social occasions. With the help of volunteers, we prepare low cost, healthy snacks and meals exploring nutritious, accessible food choices. These events bring everyone together and with a focus on providing fresh, tasty and healthy catering choices. If you would like to help please do get in touch!
