A food stop that supports families struggling to make ends meet is offering residents a way to cut their food bills while still staying healthy.

The Parchmore Centre Food Stop is a food sharing club open to local residents with members paying £3.50 a week for 15 to 20 items of grocery shopping,   such as fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy, helping residents save on average £500 to £700 on food  bills.

It uses a a multi-agency approach to help low-income families,  many in rent arrears, reduce their debts and boost their job skills.

Residents affected by any of these issues can join the Food Stop, which is subsidised mini market and be introduced to services which offer advice and support on welfare reform, rent arrears, financial or employment difficulties, those at risk of homelessness or homeless or if you just want to be in a better situation.

Community Connect which is supported by the council’s gateway services can also provide: personal budgeting support, debt management, landlord liaison, help finding a job along with services that promote welling and resilience.

The Food Stop in Thornton Heath operates out of the Parchmore Methodist Church and Community Centre on 53-55 Parchmore Road

For more information contact the Parchmore on: 02086537353 or email becky@parchmore.org

*Our picture shows Cabinet member for Housing Cllr Alison Butler at the recent opening of the Monks Hill Food Stop.