Goole’s new social supermarket opened its doors to customers for the first time this week.
The supermarket, run by Two Rivers Community Pantry, welcomed shoppers in for the first time on Monday, November 1. Customers said they were thrilled to see the store opening on Stanhope Street, saying it will be a massive help to many people in the local area.
One customer said: “It’s really good, they have such a good array of stock and it is at affordable prices meaning people won’t have to go hungry. “A relative told me about the one they have in Witherensea and he said how good it is, so when I heard that we were getting one in Goole too I was chuffed. It’s a great facility and will be a big help for everyone.” Anyone can use the supermarket, regardless of their financial position, with the volunteers who run the store saying it aims to give people “a hand up, not a hand out” and ensure people don’t have to choose between heating or eating.
East Riding of Yorkshire Ward and Goole Town councillor, Anne Handley is one of the volunteers who helped to set up the community pantry last year. She said: “The social supermarket will seek to work with families to enable them to get over hard times as they seek new employment or better paid jobs or to address some of the challenges in their lives. “Food can be purchased at a discounted rate as we seek to give local residents a hand up not a hand out. “Job prospects are growing well in the area and we want to make sure that as people transition into new better paid work the supermarket will be there to help them on their journey.” The social supermarket will be open Mondays to Thursdays from 9.30am-1.30pm and residents will need to show a proof of their address to register for a free membership card. The shop also has disabled access through the back of the building. For more information contact 07517 937914.
Volunteers at the new social supermarket in Goole on its launch day. (04-11-99 GT/EC)
