One year of the Rekindle Pantry 

We recently marked one year of the Rekindle Pantry and celebrated its birthday at our flagship supplementary school in Hulme, Manchester.

We opened the Pantry in March 2025 in response to the increasing cost of living crisis, with a simple aim: to create a space where people could access food and other household essentials without barriers, and feel comfortable and supported doing so. We also wanted to demonstrate the growing need for foodbank services among people who may not traditionally be seen as needing this kind of support, but who are increasingly struggling to make ends meet as living costs rise. One year on, the pantry has not only demonstrated this, but has grown into much more than a provisions service – it has become a genuinely welcoming community space, rooted in Rekindle’s wider work.

Over the past 12 months, the Pantry has recorded 360+ visits across 86 sessions, supporting an estimated 400 people, including households and those collecting on behalf of others. But looking beyond the numbers, what’s taken shape is a space for connection, conversation and everyday support – somewhere people can drop in, be recognised, have a brew and feel part of something bigger than the issues they may be facing.

The Pantry is meeting a deeply local need, with around 79% of visits coming from Hulme and surrounding postcodes, and most people finding it through word of mouth – a strong indicator of trust within the community.

As one person shared, the Pantry is a place where they “feel cared for.” Another described leaving feeling “blessed, full, joyful and thankful.” Feedback gathered over the year shows that the impact goes beyond food – with people reporting reduced stress, greater stability in managing household costs, and a stronger sense of community and support. These moments, and the consistency behind them, are what matter most.

Cara, our Community and Partnerships Lead who has overseen the development of the Rekindle Pantry since its inception said:

We’ve learnt a lot along the way about what people need, what works in practice, and the importance of keeping things simple, community-rooted and consistent. Since we opened last March, the Pantry has always been designed to operate as a free drop-in service and community resource, with no referral or booking needed, to deliberately remove some of the usual barriers people face when accessing support.

As we look ahead, we’re keen to welcome more people through the doors, particularly those who may not yet feel the Pantry is for them. At the same time, we’re exploring how this work can continue in a sustainable way, so it remains a consistent presence in the community.

This has only been possible thanks to the support of a number of organisations and partners, including Pearson, Arnold Clark, Co-op, Tesco (Stronger Starts), Groundwork UK, Manchester Airport, Manchester City Council and One Stop, alongside the ongoing contribution of volunteers and the local community.

If you’re interested in supporting the Pantry or finding out more, please get in touch with Cara Kennedy [email protected]