Full Breakdown
Affordable Food Shop Aims to Combat Food Poverty Stigma in Okehampton
4/22/2026, 3:10:07 AM
Innovative Approach to Food Assistance
The Affordable Food Shop, recently opened in Okehampton, Devon, seeks to address food poverty while reducing the stigma associated with food assistance. This initiative allows individuals who typically rely on the town's food bank to select food items for free using credit vouchers, rather than receiving pre-packed parcels. The project is spearheaded by Rebecca Green, founder of the Okehampton Community Kitchen and Foodbank, who believes this model is the first of its kind in the UK. Green has dedicated approximately 30 years to food-related projects in Okehampton and beyond.
Community Support and Operations
The Affordable Food Shop operates with the help of 16 volunteers aged between 14 and 79, and is located in premises leased from the Royal British Legion. The shop offers a variety of fresh and tinned food, as well as household goods, all at low prices and without judgment. Stock is sourced from surplus items purchased at reduced costs from organizations like Fareshare South West. Green emphasizes that the shop not only provides food but also restores dignity and choice to those in need.
Personal Motivation Behind the Initiative
Rebecca Green's personal experiences with food insecurity drive her commitment to this project. She stated, "I come from a background where we did not have food security. I know how much something like this would have meant to my mum." Her motivation stems from a desire to prevent other families from facing similar hardships. The shop aims to ease the pressure on food banks while promoting a sense of community support.
Community Perspectives
Maggy Whitehouse, a trustee and volunteer at the shop, highlighted the importance of community support, noting a shift away from neighbors helping one another. She expressed her gratitude for being part of this initiative, stating, "I've been so broken financially that I would have gone down on my knees for a food bank. Something like this would have been a godsend."
Suzie Roberts, one of the shop's first customers, echoed the sentiment, expressing hope that the concept would expand to other towns. She remarked, "There's a stigma around food banks, especially for people who work full-time and still struggle. Here, there's no judgement — I think it's wonderful."
Financial Sustainability
All proceeds from the Affordable Food Shop will be reinvested into supporting individuals who cannot afford to buy food, ensuring the initiative's sustainability and continued impact on the community.
The Affordable Food Shop represents a significant step towards redefining food assistance in Okehampton, fostering dignity and choice for those facing food poverty while encouraging community engagement and support.
