Stockport has embraced a pivotal role in the nationwide effort to revolutionize local food systems, aiming to ensure access to nutritious, sustainable food for all residents. Recognizing the profound impact of food on social, economic, and environmental issues such as food poverty, obesity, and waste, the Stockport Food Partnership has emerged as a collaborative force since late 2022.
Comprising Stockport Council, community groups, charitable organizations, and industry stakeholders, the Partnership has spearheaded workshops engaging diverse voices across Stockport’s food landscape. These efforts have culminated in the development of the Stockport Food Plan, a dynamic framework designed to evolve with community needs. At its core, the plan focuses on three key priorities for the upcoming year:
- Reducing food poverty in Stockport
- Enhancing community food education
- Minimizing food waste from local businesses
Councillor Keith Holloway, Cabinet Member for Health & Adult Social Care, commended Stockport’s proactive approach, stating, “Stockport is setting the standard by uniting communities, businesses, and local organizations to establish affordable, high-quality food as a hallmark of the borough.”
Leon Ballin, Sustainable Food Places Programme Manager, echoed this sentiment, praising Stockport’s ambition to effect meaningful change. “In more than 100 locations nationwide, communities are joining forces to envision and actualize healthier, more sustainable food systems,” he noted. “Stockport’s commitment to this vision is commendable, and we are thrilled to support their ongoing endeavors.”
Among the diverse members of the Food Partnership is Re
, a charity dedicated to redistributing surplus food throughout Reddish. Their flagship initiative, the Good Stuff social supermarket, in partnership with Greater Together Manchester, provides affordable, nutritious food to local residents. The community’s enthusiastic response underscores the initiative’s impact, with one member expressing gratitude for the unprecedented support.
Also integral to the Partnership is The Cultural Food Bank, Stockport’s pioneering resource offering culturally significant foods to community members while promoting budgeting skills and wellness through educational programs. Since its inception in May 2020, the Food Bank has been a vital lifeline for vulnerable populations facing food insecurity.
Looking ahead, the Stockport Food Partnership aims to expand its influence by seeking funding opportunities to hire a dedicated Food Partnership Coordinator. This strategic move aims to bolster their efforts and further enhance community well-being through sustainable food initiatives.
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