Each day as families walk through the doors of our Community Groceries, they not only get access to the affordable food and support they need, but are getting to hear the good news of Jesus and seeing his love in action too.
Our team over in Ragworth got chatting with grocery member Lynda* this week about the impact the grocery was having on her life. ‘I really don’t know how I managed without the Community Grocery but now I can get all the food that I need,’ she said
And it’s a story we’re hearing across all our groceries. In Hexham, new member Gary* messaged the team explaining how hopeless things in his life had seemed before joining the grocery. He shared that he and his wife were at rock bottom after being made redundant, moving to the area and not having a support network. They’d had to turn to using food banks and had been unable to afford their heating as they waited for Government support to kick in.
‘At first, I was so nervous about coming to the grocery and having to explain that I didn’t have the £5 membership fee,’ Gary said, ‘but as soon as I walked through the doors, I met team member Nicky who immediately welcomed me, put me at ease and listened to me as I shared about my situation. She told me about the pay-it-forward post-it notes so not only was I able to get my membership for free, but my shop that day was also paid for. I felt so listened to and the team even prayed for me. I don’t have the words to explain the gratitude I have for the grocery and the team!’
And it’s not just about meeting the practical needs of people. As families shop in store, they hear the gospel and are coming to know Jesus!
Debbie* shared with her local grocery team, ‘I thank God for you and for this shop. Even working full-time, I struggle with the rising cost of living and being able to feed my two children. The grocery has been my life saver in being able to put fresh fruit and veg on my table, and ever put little treats like crisps and biscuits in my kid’s packed lunches. I tell everyone about the grocery and how brilliant it is. Thanks so much!’
Do be praying that as we launch more Community Groceries across the country, lives will be changed practically and by the love of Jesus. Could you stand with us financially so we can bring the groceries to more families across the UK? Visit communitygrocery.org.uk
