Funding given to a social supermarket in north Dorset has been an 'absolute godsend' as it continues to help families.

The Royal Countryside Fund and Waitrose & Partners have given The Blackmore Vale Charity just over £10,000 via their Happiness Grants programme.

The charity, also known as The Vale Pantry, addresses food insecurity by providing affordable, nutritious food to low-income families and individuals, promoting dignity and choice through its innovative membership model.

This initiative also extends its support through the 'Pantry on Tour' mobile service, ensuring those unable to visit the store can still benefit.

Carole Jones, founder of The Vale Pantry said: “We started during the pandemic when we could see the level of deprivation that many people in our area were experiencing. We’re very unique in what we do, supplying fresh produce to our community.

"Since we opened in 2020, we have helped hundreds of families to get back on their feet again.

"Funding from The Royal Countryside Fund has enabled us to run an outreach service which in a rural area has been an absolute God send for so many families who are without transport, and others who simply are unable to leave their homes due to frailty. 

"Working with around 370 families at any time can be a challenge, but it is with amazing help from trusts such as The Royal Countryside Fund that we are able to do what we do.”