A new social supermarket based at Emmaus Salford has been official opened by the Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett.

On Tuesday 5 December, guests and supporters of Lucie’s Pantry gathered at Emmaus Salford’s community base in Pendleton to take part in the ribbon cutting ceremony. Lucie’s Pantry aims to provide a sustainable and affordable source of food and household essentials to members of the Pendleton community struggling to make ends meet through debt, illness or low income.

Mayor of Salford, Paul Dennett, said: “I would like to congratulate Emmaus Salford and all the partners involved in putting in the hard work and collectivism to launch Lucie’s Pantry. It’s organisations like Emmaus and others within our great city that pull together in these times of austerity to provide real opportunities for people in desperate, destitute situations.”

Pat is a companion at Emmaus Salford – one of 20 formerly homeless people who live, work and are supported by the charity. Pat is now the Project Manager at Lucie’s Pantry, running the social enterprise, sourcing stock, liaising with local partner organisations and serving members.

Pat, companion at Emmaus Salford, said: “The launch was a great success and it was a good turnout at our Salford community. We very much appreciate the Mayor of Salford taking the time to cut the ribbon and would like to thank all the partners who have helped to bring Lucie’s Pantry to life. I would also like to thank my fellow companions for helping with the launch and in setting up Lucie’s Pantry.”

The social supermarket model is different to food banks. People who want to use the social supermarket become members of Lucie’s Pantry. Members pay £2.50 per week and are able to choose items to the value of approximately £15. Lucie’s Pantry has already got 70 members who are benefitting from the service.

Simon Locke, Community Director at Emmaus Salford, said: “I am really proud that Lucie’s Pantry can offer something back to the people in the surrounding community who have offered Emmaus Salford so much positive support. We truly believe we are offering great food for great people.”

Lucie’s Pantry is being run by Emmaus Salford with support from Bell Group, Clarion Housing Group, FareShare, Great Places, Guinness Partnership, Keepmoat, Loaves and Fishes, Salford Citizens Advice, Salford Foodbank and Salix Homes.

Emmaus Salford currently supports 20 formerly homeless people by providing them with a stable home, meaningful work and support for as long as they need it. The charity operates three social enterprises across Salford, selling donated and upcycled furniture, household goods, clothes and vintage wares.

To learn more and support Emmaus Salford, head to www.emmaus.org.uk/salford. If you would like to get involved or donate an item, please call 0161 737 8279 or visit one of the Emmaus Salford shops.