Welshpool Community Fridge Initiative Launches to Tackle Food Waste and Support Locals
A new community-driven project has been unveiled in Welshpool, designed to address food waste while providing essential support to residents across the area. The Welshpool Community Fridge, introduced by Agatha (Agi) Titley, community engagement officer at Welshpool Town Council, represents a significant step towards sustainability and community cohesion.
Cutting Food Waste Through Sharing
The primary goal of the Community Fridge is to drastically reduce the amount of local food that ends up in landfills. Instead of discarding perfectly edible items simply due to expiration dates, this initiative encourages the sharing of surplus food with anyone in the community who can make use of it. By redistributing excess provisions from local food-based businesses, organizations, and residents, the project ensures that valuable resources are not wasted.
Accessibility is a key feature of the program, as users can visit the Community Fridge located in the Welshpool Town Hall and help themselves without any means testing or identification requirements. This approach not only supports individuals and households but also fosters a culture of sharing and strengthens community bonds.
Funding and Volunteer Support
Seed funding for the Community Fridge has been provided by Powis County and Welshpool Town Council as part of the Councillors Anti-Poverty Fund, highlighting the commitment to addressing local needs. Volunteers play a crucial role in the initiative's success, responsible for collecting unwanted food from suppliers, transporting and packing the fridge, and ensuring quality control according to established procedures.
The Community Fridge is accessible every day except Sunday at the Welshpool Town Hall, offering a reliable resource for those in need. For those interested in volunteering or accessing the fridge, contact can be made via email at office@welshpooltowncouncil.gov.uk or by phone at 01938 553142.
Broader Community Engagement
This initiative was recently highlighted during a meeting of Welshpool Rotary, where Agatha Titley presented the details to members. Welshpool Rotary meets on the second and fourth Wednesday at 12:30 pm at the Royal Oak at the Cross in Welshpool. For more information about Rotary activities, contact Mike Lade at 07803 038858 or welshpoolrotary@gmail.com, or visit their website and Facebook page.
By promoting sustainability, reducing landfill waste, and providing practical support, the Welshpool Community Fridge stands as a testament to the power of community-driven solutions in tackling both environmental and social challenges.
