This winter the Our Manchester Food Partnership (OMFP) is going above and beyond to make sure that no one in the city goes hungry.
The cost-of-living crisis has laid bare the difficulties many people face on a daily basis and as prices have continued to rise, it has been harder for working people to buy cheap and nutritious food.
The OMFP, which connects more than 100 partner organisations across Manchester, has to date, distributed 7,700 vouchers allowing access to a weekly shop via The Bread and Butter Thing which allows them a weekly shop for only £8.50.
Additionally, steps have been made to ensure that different cultural groups in Manchester also have access to food. Established through the Manchester Black and Minority Ethnic Network, The Rafiki Food Network has been engaging with communities throughout the city ensuring that a culturally appropriate food offer can be accessed.
What makes Rafiki unique is that they recognise that when residents and communities are hit by rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis it not only affects people financially, it also impacts a way of life. The cost-of-living crisis has made access to culturally appropriate food more difficult as the price of some essential cultural foods has risen significantly.
In addition, this winter, additional funding has also been made available to help organisations access stock through key partnerships with Fareshare and Feeding Britain, and, paying for white goods, professional memberships, training and infrastructure items.
Joanna Midgley, deputy leader of Manchester City Council said: “The increase in the price of food is just one of the ways in which the cost-of-living crisis has made the lives of ordinary people that much harder.
“Through the OMFP we hope to make a tangible and important impact on people’s lives, ensuring that they can access cheap and nutritious food throughout the winter months.
“This is an ongoing project and if people are able to help either by donating food or volunteering their time it could make a lasting impact to our communities.”
Atiha Chaudry, founder of the Rafiki Food Network and director of The Manchester BME Network said: “The Rafiki Food Network was set up by the Manchester BME Network alongside Fareshare, as well as more than 30 ethnic community groups who help relieve food poverty.
“Focusing on providing culturally and appropriate food, not usually available through the usual food support systems and, due to the cost-of-living crisis the cost of some culturally appropriate foods and ingredients has risen, in some cases three times higher than usual.
“The work we do is vital in supporting communities and families who depend on us to help them through this incredibly difficult period.”
