Food Aid Inequality Rectified (FAIR-food)

Project Summary

Food pantries help people access affordable food. These schemes often operate like small shops and are usually accessed via a small membership fee or pay per visit, allowing people to receive food worth a much higher value. The food in these venues is often received from surplus sources and public donations. In recent years, the food pantry model has grown as a popular alternative to traditional food banks. While food banks remain an important resource for people experiencing severe food insecurity, they often require referrals and typically offer limited choice in the food provided. In contrast, food pantries are generally open to a wider range of people and are viewed as a more dignified form of support. They give individuals greater choice and independence in meeting their food needs. However, many pantries face challenges such as limited supplies and poor-quality food, making it difficult to consistently meet local demand and having negative impacts on health. To bridge these gaps, many pantries increasingly purchase additional stock, particularly during times of reduced donations or when essential items are in short supply.

We will work with multiple organisations who contribute to the food aid system in the districts of Southampton, New Forest and Isle of Wight. We will aim to create a new online platform to connect local food suppliers and retailers with food pantries. This platform will prioritise healthier options, keep surplus food within local districts, and reduce food waste during transit. We will also work with community members to understand the changes they want in their food pantries in order to co-design and implement smaller, practical interventions. With these changes, we aim to help pantries offer healthier food choices to their customers while building more sustainable and efficient ways of operating.