The Bridge Pantry
The cost-of-living crisis
In 2022, we conducted research seeking to understand what daily life was really like for the diverse range of people living in Elmbridge. Among the most shocking findings was three-quarters of children in poverty came from working families. Despite being in regular employment, wages were just not stretching far enough to give people what they needed.
The Bridge
A year later, we opened The Bridge, a community hub supporting working families across Elmbridge. At The Bridge, families can do their weekly grocery run at our shop-without-a-till, whilst accessing specialist support from our team and partner organisations.
“An emotional rollercoaster in life has lead me to this fantastic place of calm”
—-Bridge client
Our vision
Over the past few months, we’ve been listening closely to our Bridge customers, volunteers, and referral agencies to understand how we can evolve our pilot project The Bridge to better meet local needs.
We are now exploring moving to Church Farm Shop: a larger, more accessible space, which will allow us to welcome more people and offer a wider range of support. The new location includes outdoor areas with exciting potential—such as creating a community garden, or hosting wellbeing activities that promote connection and mental health.
One of the biggest changes ahead is our transition from a free shop model to becoming part of the Your Local Pantry network. This new approach offers a more sustainable and empowering way for working families to access affordable food. Members pay a small weekly fee and, in return, choose a set number of items—giving them more dignity, choice, and consistency.
At the heart of these plans is our commitment to meeting local need—not just with food, but with friendship, support, and opportunities to thrive.
“Welcomed with an offer of a drink, space to ponder the till-less shop, with discretion. A place where I can breathe.
The Bridge and all the wonderful volunteers have given me the kind of life back I deserve”
