FOLLOWING on from the success of its first community shop in Weymouth The Nest is launching a second site to help those with limited disposable income.
Earlier this month it was revealed the inaugural shop had helped hundreds of people in its first year of operation and now aims to reach even more residents by opening a second site in Littlemoor early next year.
“We are opening in Littlemoor because many people who would qualify for this are there,” said Neil Hardisty, director at The Nest.
“The charity Big 4 Littlemoor is backing the programme and has been keen for a shop to open there.”
Mr Hardisty said that premises at the Top Club have been secured, although with ‘limited room’ with interviewing under way in mid November for a manager to run the new shop.
While those who run the community shop would love it to be open prior to the end of 2021 that seems unlikely.
Mr Hardisty added: “We would love to open before Christmas but reality gets in the way.
“Last time I was there it was full of stuff we need to sort out and then we need to get in our own fridges, freezers and shelving in.
"So I expect we will open in January, but I cannot say an exact date.”
The Nest is a community shop which aims to support people by supplementing those who need it by offering 10 items for £3.50, or £5 for 15, alongside free bread, fruit and vegetables for its members.
- Read more: The Nest helps hundreds of people in first year
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The current store, based in The Waverley Community Hub in Abbotsbury Road, also stocks toiletries and a whole variety of different foods, donated via FanShare; a charity network aimed at relieving food poverty and reducing waste.
Residents who want to access the community shop must become a member, which is free to do via The Nest Facebook page, with no proof of financial hardship required.
Reflecting back on what was a ‘phenomenal’ year for the first site Mr Hardisty said the backing for a second shop has been great.
Mr Hardisty added: “The support from the community, from the local council and Dorset Council has been great, they have been tremendous backers for the new shop.”
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