HUNDREDS of households have signed up to the Salvation Army’s community store project since it was launched earlier this year.
The Pantry Store, which has been open for around eight months, sells subsidised items to provide shopping with “dignity and respect” for struggling Islanders.
Salvation Army officer Richard Nunn said that over 600 households had signed up so far.
“On average we see around 150 households each week,” he said.
Mr Nunn has also spoken about how the project is helping individuals and families who had previously been struggling to afford fresh produce and a range of food to eat more healthily.
“It’s making a really positive difference for the people we are supporting,” he added.
He also encouraged Islanders to support the initiative, pointing out that this could be done “in different ways” – not just by donating but also by volunteering to help in the shop.
The Jersey branch of the Salvation Army celebrated its 145th anniversary last year.
It has seen demand for its services grow significantly in recent years, having given out 1,040 food parcels in 2021, then 1,470 and 2,850 in 2022 and 2023 respectively – with 2024’s figure standing at 3,802.
The Pantry Store, which replaced the church’s food bank, was formally unveiled towards the end of last year, alongside a housing initiative called May Cottages intended to support families who are at risk of becoming homeless.
In April, Mr Nunn completed the London Marathon in a bid to support both projects, raising over £3,000 through an online fundraiser.
