Pilot scheme gives restaurant or takeaway vouchers with food parcels - to help boost local economy
Ten families a day are being given vouchers by a Devon food bank which can then be redeemed at some restaurants or cafes - to ensure support provided locally is spent locally.
Last updated 7th Mar 2021
Hungry Minds is an ambitious new food community project in Newton Abbot - which aims to feed hungry families while investing money in the local economy.
The trial is running through March.
The scheme has been a year in the making and received widespread support - with potential trials being considered in other parts of the county.
Olivia Palmer, founder of Hungry Minds, said: "Often times the solution to food poverty does not invest in the local economy, which means that it is a sticking plaster rather than a longer-term solution,”
“While devising this scheme, I discovered that many restaurants were already providing food to those in need within their communities, without receiving anything in return.
"This was especially the case in October half term last year when the government withdrew free school meals vouchers.
“Hungry Minds is designed to build on the good work already being done by restaurants, while making sure they get paid for it.”
Participating outlets in the March trial include the Piza Cafe in Newton Abbot. Mike and his team from The Pizza Cafe already work with HITS and have been wanting to establish a way to contribute regularly for some time. The team say that:
“Partnering with Hungry Minds means that they can continue to support their local community and families in need without compromising their cashflow.
David Cox chair of HITS food bank, or 'Homeless in Teignbridge support', said: “I'm very pleased to work with Olivia and Hungry Minds, it’s a great way to support our community and feed local people. It’s win-win for everyone.”
Olivia said she hopes that the pilot scheme will give donors the confidence to support a wider rollout of the scheme
Hungry Minds, established by local entrepreneur Olivia Palmer, was given the green light at the end of February following a successful grant application to the Devon Community Foundation.