A social supermarket that has helped hundreds of people to access affordable food —and reduce waste — has unveiled ambitious expansion plans.

Now The Social Action Hub, based in Rainworth, is appealing for help from local businesses and people to turn its dream into reality and make a real difference to local families.

It needs to raise £35,560 to cover the costs of relocating and setting up a new space — and is also looking to attract extra volunteers. Two new jobs would be created and more people supported.

The charity’s social supermarket has become a vital service that has become an integral part of the Rainworth and Blidworth communities.

The award-winning hub had been running a Foodshare and Community Fridge project since 2017, before launching The Social Supermarket in Rainworth, in 2020.

It enables families to address their food insecurity, reduces food waste, and provides a dignified way for people to access essential items.

Claire Penny, chief executive of the hub, said: “But as demand continues to grow, it’s clear that we need to expand in order to continue supporting those who need us most.”

The Social Supermarket allows local residents to access £45-worth of food for £4.50, helping to significantly reduce their weekly grocery bills.

It has saved 135.3 tonnes of food from going to waste in the past year, preventing the release of more than 67 tonnes of CO2 emissions — the equivalent of the annual energy use of 25 UK homes.

The service has helped more than 1,000 local residents. However, because of the increased demand its premises are at full capacity and it is now aiming to relocate to a larger space in Rainworth.

Claire said the expansion would allow it to serve more families, offer extended hours for working parents, and introduce new initiatives like a virtual school uniform exchange.

“This expansion would ensure that we can continue to provide essential support for those in need and help build a stronger, more resilient community,” she added.

“It would help us secure a larger retail unit, purchase the necessary fixtures and equipment, and create a more accessible environment for our members.

“We are asking for support from businesses, local residents, and anyone who is willing to help us achieve our goal.

“There are a number of ways you can get involved. A financial contribution, no matter how small, will go directly towards funding this expansion. Donations can be made online.

“In-kind donations are also welcome, and we have a wishlist of items needed for the new space, including retail fixtures, IT equipment, and storage solutions.

“Additionally, we are recruiting five new volunteers and creating 10 new volunteer roles to help with the expansion.”

Businesses, like Amazon, have supported the hub and supermarket. Now it needs further help to expand.

Claire said expanding The Social Supermarket would have a direct and positive impact on the community. By providing affordable access to food, it can reduce food bills for families by £45 to £135 per week.

“With the support of our community, we can continue to tackle food insecurity, reduce waste, and ensure that The Social Supermarket remains a sustainable and long-term solution for those who need it most.

“We’re grateful for any contribution, and together we can make a real difference in the lives of local families.

“We hope that you will join us in making this expansion a reality. Every donation, share, or act of support will bring us one step closer to our goal.

“Please consider contributing or spreading the word to help us continue this important work. Together, we can build a more sustainable and accessible future for the families who rely on us.”

For more information on how to donate or get involved, go to https://localgiving.org/fundraising/The-Social-Supermarket-Expansion