'It's definitely tight trying to budget on maternity leave'
Summary
About 50,000 households in Sheffield are struggling to pay their bills even after using all benefits and cutting costs to basics, according to a local report. In response, a new community food pantry has opened, offering very low-priced food to help people facing money problems during the cost-of-living crisis.Key Facts
- Nearly 50,000 households in Sheffield have a "negative budget," meaning they cannot afford basic needs despite benefits and cost-cutting.
- The Community Grocery pantry in Woodseats offers food and household items starting at 50p with a £1 yearly membership fee.
- Sara Ody, a new mother on maternity leave, highlighted the challenges of budgeting with reduced income and rising food prices.
- The Sheffield City Council report shows poverty in the city existed before the cost-of-living crisis and is linked to long-term problems like low income and housing issues.
- Around one in three children in Sheffield live in poverty, a rate much higher than the national average.
- The Message Trust runs the pantry and aims to make food affordable for all, including those not usually considered struggling.
- The pantry also offers support services like mental health help, debt advice, cooking classes, and a social space.
- Community members believe the pantry will provide both practical help and a sense of connection during tough times.
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