The ‘Open Pantry’ was created by the Benefice as an open access food bank for the Upper Dales in 2019 and has remained an important source of help for local families ever since. It’s based on the premise of receive help when required and donate when possible.
Before 2019 the nearest foodbank was based in Richmond requiring an expensive bus or taxi fare to be able to access it so the need was very evident.
By the time the first lockdown was announced and implemented in March 2020, ‘Open Pantry’ was able to respond straight away by delivering food parcels to families, the elderly and those living alone. Support was maintained for the vulnerable throughout the pandemic and Christmas Hampers are created and packed at the Vicarage every year and then delivered across the upper dale.
St Oswald’s in Askrigg is the main access point but there has also been a Pantry in Hawes at the ‘Drop In’ centre and at ‘Dales Play’.
We remain extremely grateful for the support of Julie Greenslade and the ‘Good Life’ project, the Co-Op in Leyburn and Terri and Graham Foggin.
If you or anyone you know, requires help in anyway please contact us and we will respond in complete confidence
Food and toiletry supplies can be accessed at the back of St Oswald’s Church Askrigg, which is open every day or at the Drop in Cafe at The Market Hall, Hawes held on the first Monday of the Month. The service is open to all in need.
The Pantry is operating in partnership with 'A Good Life' project
Julie Greenslade - 07817 711227
Email Julie by clicking here
UWCO - 01969 667400
Donations can be left:-
in St Oswald’s Askrigg
in the box on the Vicarage drive, Burtersett Rd, Hawes
at the Community Office in Hawes
or contact the Church office by clicking here
The Open Pantry is jointly funded by the community and DEFRA’s Local Authorities Emergency Assistance Grant for Food & Essential Supplies.
We are grateful to the Co-op in Leyburn for donations from customers to the Open Pantry Service.