Food
The cost of food has increased significantly this year. However, it really shouldn't have to be a choice between 'heating or eating'.
If you are struggling to put food on the table, please don't suffer in silence. There is local support out there.
Uttlesford Foodbank
Uttlesford Foodbank provides food and care parcels to individuals and families during times of crisis.
All public referrals can be made through Uttlesford Citizens Advice.
Professional referrals to the Foodbank can be made via Uttlesford Frontline.
Touchpoint Community Food Share
TouchPoint in Stansted Mountfitchet helps to distribute produce that supermarkets would otherwise dispose of but is still perfectly good to eat.
The food is free to take. Not only is this great for your pocket but also better for the environment too!
The Community Food Share scheme runs on the following days and times every week:
Wednesdays, Thursday, Fridays 11am-1pm
Saturdays 11am-12pm
Crafton Green, 72 Chapel Hill, Stansted, Essex, CM24 8AQ
Healthy Start Vouchers
If you are more than 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under 4, the Healthy Start scheme can help you:
- buy healthy foods like milk or fruit
- get free vitamins
You need to be claiming certain benefits to qualify. If you are pregnant and under 18 you can claim without receiving benefits.
If you are eligible, you will be sent a Healthy Start card with money on it that you can use in some UK shops. They will add your benefit onto this card every 4 weeks.
The Healthy Start voucher scheme has now been extended to include disadvantaged children under four years of age who were previously denied the support because of their families' immigration status.