The Pantry at The Bridge

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 for people to afford even the essentials for their families.

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.

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 in Hersham: a larger, more accessible space, which will allow us to welcome more people and offer a wider range of support. As well as continuing to offer the wraparound support they receive now, the new location includes outdoor areas with exciting potential in the future—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 from a wide selection of groceries—giving them more dignity, choice, and consistency, as well as saving money.

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.

*Accompanying photos represent an artist’s impression of The Bridge Pantry