Food hub celebrates three years of helping families

A community food hub in Easington Lane is celebrating its third anniversary after helping local families access affordable groceries while reducing food waste.

The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) opened its Easington Lane hub in 2023 and has since supported hundreds of people with low-cost food and household essentials.

Members can collect three bags of food each week for £8.50, including fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled items and cupboard staples. Healthy Start cards are accepted, while personal hygiene and other non-food products are also available.

One member said: “It helps at hard times, which everyone seems to face these days. They are very welcoming and friendly, which makes it an easy process. It makes me happy to know that if I’m struggling, I can reach out and get help.”

Volunteers play a key role in running the hub and supporting members each week.

Vic Harper, chief executive of The Bread and Butter Thing, said: “Marking three years in the Sunderland community is something we’re incredibly proud of.

“Over that time, we’ve seen how access to affordable, healthy food can bring people together, reduce waste and strengthen neighbourhoods. None of this would be possible without our volunteers, whose commitment and care sit at the heart of everything we do.”

Across The Bread and Butter Thing’s network, 79% of members report eating more fruit and vegetables, 71% are cooking more meals at home and 72% feel more connected to their community. Many say they save up to £25 a week on food shopping.

Anyone interested in joining the Easington Lane hub can register by texting 07507 237311 with their name, postcode and chosen hub. The organisation is also looking for volunteers