Fir Tree community centre funding success
The community food pantry on Fir Tree Drive, Treharris continues to make a meaningful difference to local families facing financial hardship. Thanks to the generous support of Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council (CBC), and the support of our Community Coach Sinead, three separate grants from the same funder have enabled the pantry to expand its services, improve food storage, and better meet the needs of the community. The total amount awarded was £8,388.
Strengthening Food Provision
The Community Food Pantry received the funding to enhance its support for individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Run entirely by dedicated volunteers, with support from Community Coach Sinead, the pantry operates weekly to provide affordable and accessible food alongside wider community support. This funding has significantly strengthened food provision, increased choice for members, and enabled the development of a more sustainable approach to stocking supplies over the next 12 months.
The grant has delivered both immediate and long-term benefits. Food availability has improved, ensuring more consistent support for vulnerable households, while forward planning has helped secure the pantry’s future. Beyond food provision, the project continues to create important social value through volunteer engagement and community connection. The pantry is extremely grateful for the funding and the lasting positive impact it has had on the Treharris community.
Warm Space Initiative
Funding also supported the successful delivery of the Warm Space initiative at Fir Tree Community Centre. The project created a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment for residents, operating three days per week. Sessions welcomed an average of 15 attendees, many of whom returned regularly and formed positive social connections. Alongside this, approximately 12 meals were served per session, ensuring visitors had access to a warm space, hot food, and companionship.
The initiative has successfully reduced isolation and supported those facing hardship. Feedback from attendees highlights its importance:
“Times have been hard lately, and I know that every Monday and Friday I can come here for a hot meal,”
“It’s nice to come down, get out of the house, have some food and a cuppa, and see people.”
Another attendee shared, “It’s lovely to get out and meet up with people for coffee and food.”
The strong attendance and positive feedback demonstrate an ongoing need for this provision, with continued investment allowing the centre to build on these solid foundations.
Enhancing Food Storage Capacity
Grant funding also enabled the pantry to improve its food storage facilities through the purchase of a commercial glass-front display freezer. This upgrade has significantly increased capacity for frozen goods, helping the pantry respond to growing demand within the community.
The new freezer has had an immediate impact, improving food safety, maintaining consistent temperatures, and allowing families to easily view and select items. Run entirely by volunteers, the pantry continues to provide vital weekly support, and this investment has enhanced both the quality and efficiency of the service delivered to local families.
