A new Community Pantry and Hub is set to open its doors in Gloucester, later this month — offering affordable food, practical support, and a welcoming space for local residents.
The Westgate Community Pantry and Hub, at 106 Westgate Street, will officially open on Friday 24 October. It’s a partnership between Gloucester City Homes (GCH) and Community Roots CIC, designed to help residents experiencing food hardship while creating new opportunities for learning, volunteering, and community action.
The pantry will operate as a membership-based social enterprise, providing fresh produce and store cupboard essentials at reduced prices. Run by the local community for the local community, it aims to make healthy food affordable and accessible.
The Hub will also feature a Social Action Hub — a dedicated space for residents and organisations to come together, learn community organising skills, and access support such as financial advice. Volunteers will be able to gain training in food handling, retail, and social enterprise management.
Young people from Young Gloucestershire helped transform the space, spending 10 days decorating and preparing the building alongside Community Roots and local residents.
“It’s important for our young people to get involved in community projects like this,” said Kevin Mannion, The King’s Trust Team Leader at Young Gloucestershire. “It helps them feel part of the city and make a real difference.”
Deb Baker, Director of Community Roots CIC, said the new hub will be a vital local resource: “Westgate needs a place where people can come together and get support with food and everyday challenges. This hub will offer residents practical help, the chance to learn new skills, and a space to socialise and connect.”
GCH, which helped renovate the property and has offered a rent reduction for the first three years, says the project reflects its commitment to long-term community investment.
“By opening up this space in Westgate, we’re backing a project that puts the community in the lead,” said Guy Stenson, Chief Executive of GCH. “It’s about trust, dignity, and giving people the chance to use their talents to promote inclusion, tackle food poverty, and build something lasting together.”