Nanna B's Kitchen

In Cheshire, one initiative has emerged as a crucial support for families in need, offering both a practical solution to food insecurity and a valuable contribution to reducing food waste. The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) has become a lifeline for many households, providing affordable, nutritious food through a simple and effective system.

TBBT operates by redistributing surplus food from supermarkets and food producers, which would otherwise go to waste, to families in need. The initiative works with a wide network of partners, including local businesses, community organisations, and volunteers, to collect and redistribute this surplus. The aim is to ensure that no good food goes to waste while offering it to those who need it most at a fraction of the usual cost.

The process is designed to be as easy and accessible as possible for families. To access the service, participants simply need to text their local TBBT group to place an order for a weekly food bundle, which typically includes fresh produce, dairy, bread, and other staple items. Once the order is placed, families can pick up their food at one of the multiple collection points across Cheshire. This flexibility allows users to choose the location most convenient for them, making it a highly accessible service.

What makes TBBT especially unique is its affordability. The weekly food bundles are available for a small fee, typically ranging from £3 to £7, which makes them an extremely cost-effective option for families facing financial strain. For many, this can provide significant relief, particularly when managing the weekly grocery shop becomes a challenge due to financial pressures.

The impact of The Bread and Butter Thing extends beyond just providing low-cost food. By redistributing surplus food, the initiative plays a key role in tackling food waste, which is a significant environmental issue. According to the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), around 1.4 million tonnes of food is wasted in the UK each year, much of which is still perfectly edible. TBBT helps to reduce this waste while supporting families who would otherwise struggle to access healthy, nutritious food.

The success of this initiative is also tied to its simplicity. The entire process, from ordering to collection, is done via text message, making it easy to use for people of all ages and technological abilities. It also encourages community engagement and solidarity, as local volunteers help to ensure the smooth running of the collection points and support families in their area.

In addition to the food bundles, TBBT also provides a sense of community. For many families, knowing that others are also relying on the service can create a network of mutual support. This helps to reduce the isolation that can come with financial difficulties and builds a sense of shared responsibility in the community.

TBBT is truly a win-win initiative—it helps families save money on their food bills, reduces food waste, and fosters a stronger sense of community in Cheshire. With multiple collection points and a simple, text-based ordering system, it’s clear why this service has become such a vital lifeline for many in the area.

For those in need of support or who wish to volunteer, more information can be found on The Bread and Butter Thing’s website, where you can find out how to get involved or register for the service.

In conclusion, TBBT is an excellent example of how innovative solutions can address pressing social and environmental issues, while making life a little easier for those who need it most.