Pyle Street Pantry offers hope to struggling Isle of Wight families

The Pyle Street Pantry, based at Newport Congregational Church, has become a beacon of hope for those struggling to make ends meet, with over 700 members.

Overseen by Reverend Mark Evans and pantry manager Leanne Arnold, this community pantry offers more than just food – it provides a lifeline.

With the cost-of-living crisis still ongoing, many families across the Island are finding it increasingly difficult to put food on the table.

Newport Congregational Church on Pyle Street in Newport (Image: IWCP)

The Pyle Street Pantry, which celebrated its first anniversary earlier this year, is a crucial resource for these households.

By providing food at a fraction of supermarket prices, the pantry helps to alleviate some of the financial strain felt by its members.

For just £5 a week, members receive ten ambient items and two frozen products, often totalling between £15 and £20 in value, to top-up their supermarket shop.

The pantry operates on a membership basis, is open to all Islanders, and is free to sign up.

Some of the offerings on the shelves at Pyle Street Pantry (Image: Pyle Street Pantry)

Currently, the pantry serves around 120 households each week, with approximately 100 to 150 people visiting the pantry every Wednesday – its opening day.

On the day of the County Press’s visit, 70 members had already passed through its doors in the morning session, with more arriving during the evening opening hours.

Leanne Arnold, who manages the pantry, has seen first-hand the difference it has made in the community.

"A year ago, there was much less stock available, but it has since grown," she said.

"When we started, we only used the middle shelves of our pantry, but now, the top and bottom shelves are used too."

The shelves at Pyle Street Pantry (Image: IWCP)

The pantry receives some donations, but most of its stock is purchased from Morrisons and Iceland through funding from various sources, including the National Lottery Community Fund and the IW Council’s Household Support Fund, costing around £1,000 – £1,500 a week to restock.

Leanne said the majority of members, around 75 per cent, come from low-income households, with a varied demographic ranging from 16 to 70 plus.

The pantry’s impact extends beyond providing food.

It offers a welcoming and safe space for its members, many of whom use the opportunity to socialise, with tea, coffee and cake available free-of-charge.

Frozen food at Pyle Street Pantry (Image: Pyle Street Pantry)

One older user shared how the pantry has become a highlight of her week.

"It’s nice here, the people are friendly, and you can have a laugh. It helps take the struggles off your shoulders."

Another user emphasised the social aspect, saying, "I’d be sat at home doing nothing if I wasn’t here. I love it, and sometimes I spend a few hours."

"People come in, get their food, stop for a cuppa and piece of cake, and have a natter," said one regular visitor.

“I use it to help top-up my shop, and I’ve become friendly with the regular users. It’s nice to catch up with them each week.”

Members can expect around £15-£20 worth of items from a £5 spend at Pyle Street Pantry (Image: Pyle Street Pantry)

The Pyle Street Pantry also listens to the needs of its members, adjusting its offerings based on feedback.

A recent survey led to the addition of cleaning products to its shelves.

Leanne is proud of the pantry’s achievements, particularly the fact that some members no longer feel the need to use its services.

"The pantry helps people who might be in between jobs or switching benefits through the tough financial period," she explained.

With the dedication of its 22 volunteers and ongoing support from local businesses, the pantry is well-equipped to continue its mission of supporting the people of Newport and beyond.