The Sharing Table
Manchester, UK
The project is an environmentally focused food surplus redistribution initiative operating across South Manchester. The project's primary purpose is to prevent food waste by redistributing good-quality surplus food that would otherwise go to landfill, delivering clear environmental benefits while also supporting good-quality surplus food that would otherwise go to landfill, delivering clear environmental benefits while also supporting the wider community during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.
The initiative operates on an open and inclusive basis, with no referral requirements, assessments or eligibility criteria. Food is shared openly to ensure surplus is used efficiently and responsibly, regardless of background or circumstances. This is non-discriminatory approach allows the project to remain focused on waste prevention while offering practical support to anyone seeking to reduce food waste and household food costs.
The project is supported by volunteers from all walks of life, including professionals and warm-hearted local parents, who work together to collect, sort and redistribute surplus food. This diverse volunteer base reflects the community-led nature of the initiative and supports its ongoing operation.
All food is redistributed free of charge. The project does not charge for its services and does not operate as a commercial or profit-making model.
What we've received
Meals5,251
Non-food (tonnes)0.28
Community in Action
Sale, UK
Community in Action supports our neighbourhood by reducing food waste, sharing surplus, and promoting wellbeing. We aim to build connection, care for each other, and make our community stronger through practical help and learning.
About Us
Who we are
Community in Action is a grassroots, volunteer-led initiative based in Brooklands. We work together to rescue good surplus food from supermarkets and share it with local people and community centres.
Our vision is simple: a neighbourhood where food is not wasted, and everyone feels supported and connected, not just with food, but with emotional and practical care.
We’re not a charity or a business, just neighbours taking action for each other, with love and purpose.
What We Do
Supermarket Surplus Collections
We collect surplus food from local supermarkets, fresh fruit and veg, bakery goods, tins, dairy and more, that would otherwise go to waste.
Redistribution
We share this food directly with local community centres, families, and individuals. We also host local food sharing tables where anyone is welcome.
Free Well-Being Training and Support
In addition to food, we offer free well-being support to anyone in our network.
This includes:
• Drop-in listening spaces
• Group support sessions
• Training in emotional resilience, self-care, and compassionate communication
We believe food feeds the body, and connection feeds the heart.
Community Support
Whether it’s helping a youth group, supporting a women’s circle, or offering care during difficult times, we show up with warmth and respect. No forms, no judgment , just neighbour-to-neighbour kindness.
What People Say
“We’re really grateful for what you do to support the centre in providing much needed food for the community, and it all goes really quickly.”
— Community Centre Manager
“The well-being session really helped me feel less alone. It gave me something to hold onto.”
— Workshop participant
What we've received
Meals45,029
Non-food (tonnes)0.67
Betel UK Manchester
Manchester, UK
About Betel
We are a Christian charity dedicated to helping men, women and families facing social exclusion, including homelessness, drug and alcohol abuse, and long-term unemployment.
Our Mission
At Betel UK, we're on a mission to transform lives through faith, community and hard work. We provide a safe and structured family-like environment, offering peer support to help individuals overcome the challenges they face.
Our Approach
Our unique approach doesn't rely on clinical programs or on-site doctors. Instead, we offer a supportive environment where residents are paired with brother- or sister-like mentors. For those in need, we work with medical specialists to provide medically assisted detox, followed by peer-led support. We provide a stable, consistent environment that promotes making daily choices towards freedom.
Our Impact
Today, Betel residences across the globe host more than 2,400 individuals seeking recovery, offering them a path to healing and independence.
Our Locations
We have several centers throughout England and Scotland, including Birmingham, Nottingham, Derby, Manchester, Hexham and Motherwell. Our residences are drug- and alcohol-free, providing training in life and employment skills, all at no cost.
Our Redistribution Model
We are a residency, and people join us to live for the duration of the 12 - 18 month programme. We provide all of the meals, drinks and snacks each day for our residents. That starts with breakfast, some men go out to work and take a packed lunch, some eat lunch on site, and then the evening meal. All drinks and snacks in between are provided as well. The men take turns and responsibility for preparing the meals for the community.
What we've received
Meals25,466
Non-food (tonnes)1.28
Volunteering (hrs)Volunteering (hours)55
Money£22,000