What We Do

The Store Cupboard started with a simple idea: to make sure our vulnerable families can access good nutritious food in a way that keeps their dignity. We offer a safe, welcoming space where members shop, choosing fresh, nutritious food in a retail setting. Volunteers are always ready with a friendly chat and a listening ear. We know from our members that they really value the opportunity to talk and be listened to in a safe and friendly environment.

As well as the food support, we offer a friendly face and a place where people can feel safe and listened to during the time they are with us. For many, this can help lessen the feelings of social isolation.

Access is only by referral through agencies and charities across Ealing. Once referred, members pay a weekly membership fee and choose the groceries, fresh fruit and vegetables, bread, eggs, some chilled goods, store-cupboard staples and toiletries and sanitary products.

We source food through community partnerships, including distribution charities like The Felix Project and City Harvest, surplus from the DIG project in Hanwell and local Ealing allotments.

When essentials are needed, we use weekly membership fees and donations to top up stock and toiletries, ensuring a choice of items each week.

Nutritious, healthy food is our cornerstone. We passionately believe that financial challenges shouldn’t block access to healthy, affordable groceries and toiletries. The Store Cupboard offers a breathing space, bridging the gap with food provisions, signposting to other agencies when possible and appropriate, and people to talk to, helping to reduce social anxiety some members feel.

This is a community effort. Donors, volunteers, partners, and the local community make it possible. That’s where you come in. Your support, donating, volunteering, and spreading the word, keeps our shop welcoming, well-stocked and focused on what matters: dignity, choice, and healthy food.