Sainsbury's Cambridge Hobson Sq Local

Our vision is for an equitable and regenerative sustainable food system that prioritises fairness for both people and the planet. Through positive action, collaboration, and partnerships grounded in a systems approach, we aim to drive transformative change. We work to: 1. Promote healthy and sustainable food 2. Tackle food insecurity, diet-related ill health and access to affordable healthy food 3. Build community food knowledge, skills, resources and projects 4. Promote a vibrant and diverse sustainable food economy 5. Transform catering and food procurement 6. Reduce food waste and the ecological footprint of the food system

The Food Rescue Group, Cambridge is supported by a dedicated team of volunteers from the University of Cambridge, local colleges, and the wider community. Together, they share a commitment to environmental sustainability, responsible resource use, and supporting those in need within their city. Food waste presents an urgent global and local challenge. Around one third of all food produced worldwide is wasted, and when this surplus ends up in landfill it generates methane, a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide. Reducing food waste is therefore both an environmental necessity and a social responsibility, as rescued food can play a meaningful role in supporting households facing food insecurity. The group works in close partnership with local producers, independent retailers, and supermarkets to rescue surplus food before it is discarded. These collaborations create shared benefits by reducing disposal costs for businesses, minimising environmental impact, and ensuring nutritious food reaches people and community groups across Cambridge. Operations are designed around efficiency, care, and food quality. Surplus food is collected and redistributed within 15 minutes of pickup, ensuring freshness while eliminating the need for storage. This rapid turnaround also helps reduce emissions associated with refrigeration and extended supply chains. Food safety is central to all activities. Volunteers are trained to inspect food immediately upon collection to ensure it meets strict safety standards. Any items deemed unsuitable are disposed of responsibly to prevent environmental harm. Coordination is managed through a dedicated WhatsApp group, allowing volunteers to receive real-time updates and respond quickly and effectively to collections. The impact of the initiative in Cambridge is both environmental and social. Each kilogram of food rescued avoids landfill-related emissions while supporting households and community organisations. Beyond the food itself, the initiative strengthens local connections, fosters shared responsibility, and contributes to a more resilient and sustainable community. Since its launch, the Cambridge Food Rescue Group has diverted significant quantities of food from landfill, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, conserved valuable resources, and brought people together around a shared purpose. Change happens one meal, one volunteer, and one community at a time, and Cambridge continues to play an important role in that change.

We exist to help end the cycle of poverty and enable people to find wholeness in body, soul and spirit. We provide hot food, community fridges, & community markets across our locations.