Newry Mourne and Down’s Strategic Stakeholder Forum launches Social Supermarket
The Social Supermarket, funded by the Department for Communities and managed by Newry Mourne & Down District Council, through the Strategic Stakeholder Forum will be offering support to 100 individuals from the Downpatrick, Kilkeel, Newry and South Armagh areas.
Eligible participants will be able to avail of a maximum of 12 weeks support to help buy food and will be given a £35 voucher to use towards buying food in their local shop.
Co-chair of the SSF Rosemarie McDonnell, Manager of Community Advice Newry, Mourne & Down said: “Due to the on-going Cost-of Living crisis the development of a Social Supermarket Model is needed more than ever for the Newry Mourne & Down area.
“There are many reasons why individuals and families find themselves needing food and support.
“It may be due to the loss of a job, ill health, bereavement, break up of a relationship and trying to pay every day bills getting more difficult.”
In addition to ‘better-off’ calculations and benefits/debt advice from Community Advice, eligible participants will be able to choose from a variety of health & wellbeing activities, support from Clanrye Group or a referral to a specialist support organisation if Clanrye Group is unable to help them.
They will also be offered support to find employment if required and free local transport may be available to access the support.
Nicholas McCrickard co-chair of the SSF, Manager of County Down Rural Community Network said: “Delivering this Social Supermarket via the SSF means that a family or individual in difficulty will have access to many community based solutions.
“This reflects the benefit of working in partnership to support those who need it in our local council area.”
To be eligible for the programme, the household income must be below £23,000 and not receive free school meals.
In exceptional circumstances, other individuals who are struggling due to a recent events may also be considered.
Individuals can apply for support themselves.
Contact Trina on 028 3089 8119.
Referrals are also welcome via support organisations.
