Sainsbury's Hove Portland Road Local

In the year beginning 1st April 2025, we continued to combat loneliness, isolation, and social exclusion in Brighton and Hove by providing a welcoming environment, nutritious meals, and opportunities for meaningful connections. We supported over 130 isolated older people and adults with learning disabilities, enhancing their health, well-being, and social lives. Our lunch clubs, which are at the heart of our charity, offered a place for friendship with the joy of shared meals made from surplus food. “It was a great lunch. The volunteers are such a great bunch of people. Love em all. This pensioners lunch is the best in the whole of the south coast.” Tuesday club guest Lunch club is like an extended family. We are committed to building an inclusive space where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can feel a sense of belonging. Guests and volunteers with disabilities and learning disabilities and cognitive and sensory impairments are equally involved. This year, 47 volunteers helped to prepare, serve and clear away over 6000 meals to lunch club guests made from over 8 tonnes of surplus food. We fundraise to cover the cost of the transport which is around £10,000 a year for 3 buses. We charge £7.50 for a three course lunch with transport on Tuesdays and £5 for a two course lunch on Thursdays. If guests are on a low income or unable to pay we do not charge.

The Real Junk Food Project intercepts this perfectly edible food from local businesses and supermarkets before it is thrown away, turning it into healthy meals to serve to the community on a Pay as You Feel basis. The Pay As You Feel concept invites people to exchange not just their money, but ideas, time and creativity for a meal.

Our Stability and Education Project: Nurturing Sustainability and Culinary Skills in Students We are excited to announce the launch of a new project within our alternative provision, focusing on sustainability and food waste reduction. The Stability and Education Project aims to empower students by offering hands-on learning experiences that integrate essential cooking skills with a strong emphasis on environmental responsibility. Through practical lessons, students will learn how to prepare nutritious meals while gaining insights into meal planning, sourcing local ingredients, and creatively utilising leftovers. This initiative not only equips students with vital life skills but also a sense of accountability towards their impact on the environment. By participating in this project, students will develop the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices that benefit both their health and the planet.