I am part of a dedicated team of volunteers who help to run The Castleman Community Larder in West Moors, Dorset.This a not for profit community interest company (C.I.C). It is entirely volunteer run, with no salaries paid - not even to the founder.

I have signed up for the Bournemouth Bay 5k Fun Run taking place on 23rd March 2025 I will be walking in aid of the Castleman Community Larder. For accuracy, I will be walking the 5k as I have to use a walking frame owing to long-standing disability

In these challenging times, the cost of living crisis has significantly impacted low-income families and struggling households. Utility bills, rents, and food prices continue to rise, making it increasingly difficult for many to access basic necessities. The Castleman Community Larder was established to combat food poverty in our local community by providing good quality and healthy food to those in need.

We support low-income families and struggling households across East Dorset and surrounding areas by offering ethically sourced food that would otherwise go to waste. For every 50 members we serve, we divert an impressive 9.1 tonnes of food from landfills per year to struggling households. Our zero-waste policy ensures that any produce unfit for human consumption is donated as animal feed to local farmers.

Members can access affordable food without judgment or referral requirements; there is no membership fee. For just £7 per weekly visit, they can take home as much fresh fruit and vegetables, frozen products, and dried or tinned goods as they need for a week. All funds raised through donations and grants are used directly to purchase food for the larder and cover operational costs.

Since our inception in August 2023, we have welcomed over 1,000 members who value our service immensely. We strive not only to provide food but also to foster community interaction and combat loneliness through initiatives like our popular tea and coffee mornings every Tuesday for just 99 pence.

Additionally, we organize free activities for children during Christmas, Easter, and Halloween—events that bring joy and connection within our community.

I am aiming to raise £1,000 or more for this vital service that supports so many in our area. Your generous contributions can make a significant difference! Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page; donating through JustGiving is simple, fast, and secure. Your details are safe with them—they will never sell your information or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, I will withdraw funds directly; it’s the most efficient way to contribute while saving time and costs.