17/02/2026
🔊 Long post alert!!
A few conversations I've had recently with NON members of the larder has put me on a journey of reflection and conversation.
Since Stepping Stones became a community larder in July 2023, our membership has positively grown, our model has evolved and we always look at how to improve...p.s - more to follow!
🗣️ I had a conversation recently with a person I know and asked why they hadn't joined us, they replied-
"Because there's probably worse off people than me that needs it" as they admitted they just 'get by' but with a financial struggle.
❓ So, how do we change this mindset that it is only certain people in certain situations that can join us?
❓How do we remind people that the larder model is to support everyone locally in accessing affordable food with a more dignified approach when needed?
❗ Emergency parcels are available for crisis situations, but the long-term goal is to promote good budgeting choices which allows you to shop with dignity, choice and be encouraged to build that into other aspects of life.
❗Another very important point to note is - we NEED your support to keep operating!! We enjoy the position we hold in the community, knowing that people are accessing affordable food so that this may help them cover other costs whilst the cost of living continues to rise - but again please remember, our food costs/bills rise too and, in the quieter donation months, our weekly food budget of £250 doesn't always stretch that far. (That is also the reason we trust our members not to abuse our project).
👉 We NEED your support regularly by you coming through that door and using your membership or simply by joining up!
❓Can you encourage people you know to join us and really see how they can save some money each week on their general food bills?
❓Would you like to help fundraise to keep our mission long-term sustainable?
🗣️Talk to us!! Pop in and ask questions!!
🤫 Curious but embarrassed?! Let's meet at a quieter time and I will show you around and explain how we operate and how we can help.
We DONT ask intrusive financial questions.
We DONT judge you or your situation.
We DO welcome new members of any background.
We DO want you to know you are helping us by us helping you!
❓Do any businesses/organisations want any leaflets for their clients/family/friends?
🤙 07730788335
📨 [email protected]
⭐ I'm sure lots of you know the sheer amount of time and love I put into Stepping Stones as it is a huge passion of mine and I fully believe in the project.
⭐ Plus the amount of time and effort the wonderful volunteers give to me, it is truly heartwarming and sincere.
🙏 So please, read this, share this, spread the word, ask questions....and JOIN us.
Leanne & the team ♥️
