Exeter Food Action is recovering good food in Exeter for the benefit of all

Exeter Food Action recently celebrated the opening of its new warehouse at Marsh Barton, marking 8 years of rescuing in-date food in the city and redistributing it to local charities and community organisations.

With other partners, it works to reduce the amount of surplus food that would otherwise go for landfill or incineration, thereby saving both money and harmful emissions. At a time of rising numbers of people seeking food support through Food banks and others, it is making a positive difference to hundreds of people.

All food received is donated to community projects that support vulnerable people in Exeter, including those affected by hunger, homelessness, family breakdown, low incomes, poor diet, benefit uncertainty, abuse and palliative care.

Amongst its suppliers are stores such as Sainsburys, Marks & Spencers and Tesco, as well as some farms, bakeries and processing companies like Rod and Ben’s. With over thirty suppliers, EFA’s recipients include Gabriel House, St. Petrock’s, various foodbanks, Hospiscare and school breakfast clubs.

Coordinator Elizabeth Butland said, “we are making a huge difference to many lives in and around Exeter. Charities that would buy food for their users are freed up to spend money in other ways. In addition, our new warehouse allows us to expand with more fridges and freezers, and to prolong the life of good food that would normally be destroyed”.

Exeter Food Action is a charity working alongside Devon County and Exeter City Councils with the support of churches, community groups, businesses and the Environment Agency. The depot at Space Place acts as a hub and hold foods temporarily before they are distributed by volunteers across the area.

Read more about Exeter Foodbank here.