Bryncynon Community Revival Strategy
Get in touch with us at info@new.com
Registered Charity Number: 1067535 Registered Company Number: 3195860
Our Food Pantry – Now at the Heart of Taffys Cafe
In early 2025, we proudly relocated our Food Pantry to the rear of Taffys Cafe, creating a more accessible, welcoming, and supportive space for those who need a little extra help.
By bringing the pantry into the cafe, we’ve been able to offer more than just essential groceries – visitors now benefit from the warm, friendly environment of the cafe, where they can stop for a hot drink, enjoy a chat, and connect with others in the community.
This move has helped break down barriers, reduce stigma, and encourage more people to seek support when they need it. The combination of practical help and social connection is making a real difference, and we’re proud to continue supporting our community with dignity, kindness, and care.
What is the Food Pantry
In these challenging times, we understand that essential needs like food can sometimes take a backseat when finances are tight. To address this issue, we launched our Food Pantry with the goal of removing barriers to access. Our pantry is open to all, requiring no means testing. As long as you can make it to us, you are welcome to use this service.
We have designed the Food Pantry to complement our Welcome Wednesday sessions, which offer a variety of advice services alongside the pantry. Regularly, organisations participate to provide support in areas such as energy advice, benefits, mental health, and more.
Thanks to funding from the National Lottery and IKEA, we have created a warm and inviting space, complete with comfortable seating. This setting allows individuals to connect with like-minded people and engage in informal conversations with other community members and organizations about available support.
It’s important to note that we operate independently; we are not part of a Food Bank network or a larger entity. We are a registered community charity focused on providing services that meet the needs of our local population.
Our Food Pantry is more than just a place to obtain food; it serves as a support hub for individuals navigating the current cost of living crisis we all face.
How it works
Our volunteers are here to assist you, but the process is straightforward. You can take up to eight individual items for a minimum donation of £3.00, which helps us cover costs and ensures we can continue to restock our supplies.
Opening Hours: The pantry is open every Wednesday from 9.30 AM to 12.30 PM.
How you can help
Food Donations: We are always in need of food donations, so if you or any local businesses would like to contribute, please reach out to us.
Financial Donations: If you can make a financial contribution to support this project, rest assured that 100% of your donation will go directly toward repurchasing food items. We have multiple donation pots throughout the building, and if you’d like to make a larger donation, please speak to a team member.
Pay It Forward: While our £3 donation is low, we recognize that some families may struggle even with this small amount. If you would like to help cover the cost for someone else in need, your generosity would be greatly appreciated.
Volunteering: We have a wonderful team of dedicated volunteers, but we are always grateful for additional support. If you have spare time and would like to help, please contact us at 01443 475120.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a Food Bank?
No, it is not a registered Food Bank; it is a Food Pantry. This is a completely nonprofit initiative.
What is the difference between a food bank and a food pantry?
Our Food Pantry offers a weekly support network through a free membership scheme, providing a long-term solution compared to Food Banks, which typically offer short-term assistance. Our pantry also supplies refrigerated and fresh food items that are often not available through traditional Food Banks.
Do you provide emergency aid?
Yes, we strive to ensure that no one goes hungry. We may request additional information to verify eligibility for emergency assistance.
Why is there a minimum donation?
Our Food Pantry operates on a nonprofit basis. Many items are purchased at cost, and we subsidise prices through funding and reduced-rate food sourcing. Currently, we pay for about 95% of the goods we provide and do not rely solely on food donations.
Why can't you open all week?
Due to high demand and the need to maintain stock levels, we are only currently able to offer our services one day a week.
Don't you have funding for this?
In Short No, Yes we do occasionally apply for small funding grants, which allows us to subsidise food costs significantly. However, this by no means fully funds it. The minimum donation helps us sustain this service.
Why can't I take more than 8 Items?
To ensure that everyone in need can access the pantry, we have set a maximum of eight items per person. The pantry is intended to supplement your needs rather than replace a regular weekly grocery shop.
Why do you offer items past their BBE date?
Some items may be past their Best Before dates, but we ensure they are safe for consumption before placing them on our shelves. We clearly mark extended shelf life according to manufacturer guidelines.
Where does the food come from?
We source stock from various organisations, including supermarkets, for which we pay. We also welcome occasional donations from local groups and individuals.