Dear friends and supporters of the Social Supermarket in Buckfastleigh, we have important updates to share regarding our beloved community resource. Due to the end of our core funding, Better Places (Be Buckfastleigh) has reviewed our projects to ensure each one is sustainable and self-funding, no longer reliant on grants.

Starting from Tuesday, 5th November, the suggested donation at the Social Supermarket will increase from £3.50 to £4.50. This decision, though difficult, is crucial for the continued operation and success of the supermarket, ensuring it remains a valuable asset to our community.

Previously, your donations have covered the cost of food from Fare Share and the rental of the Football Club premises. However, Better Places has absorbed all other operational costs such as back office support, administration, and insurance. Moving forward, these costs will also need to be covered by the supermarket's own funds, necessitating this change in donation amount.

We assure you that any surplus funds will be reinvested into the supermarket. We look forward to still hosting special events during the holidays and continuing to offer essential household products. Additionally, we are excited to introduce a range of eco-friendly products over the coming months. These include safety razors, cleaning products, reusable period products, drinks bottles, and hygiene items, all available within the suggested donation of £4.50.

If you have any questions about this change or wish to learn more about the funding of the Social Supermarket, please feel free to reach out to Rachel at rachel@bebuckfastleigh.co.uk.

The Social Supermarket continues to operate every Tuesday at Buckfastleigh Rangers Football Club from 15:30-17:00. This service is available to everyone in Buckfastleigh and the surrounding villages, and we warmly invite you to join us.