Kickstart Social Supermarket has been operating since 2017, supporting families in poverty across the greater Lisburn area. The project provides access to food support alongside wraparound care including budgeting, benefits advice, and income maximisation. Beyond food, the project offers support in benefits, financial management, debt, employability, housing, wellbeing, cooking, and reducing isolation.
Staffing, Volunteers, and FareShare Engagement
The organisation has 12 staff across three projects, with five staff dedicated to the Social Supermarket. Each week, 10 volunteers contribute to supporting the social supermarket. The project was referred to FareShare by the Department for Communities in 2017 and has engaged with the organisation ever since. FareShare provides a reliable supply of quality food that helps meet the growing demand from families struggling with the cost of living.
Meeting Rising Demand and Challenges
As household financial pressures increase, the Social Supermarket responds by providing reduced-cost food and longer-term support such as budgeting and debt advice, employability support, and household management skills, helping people rebuild stability. Before partnering with FareShare, sourcing food was inconsistent and relied heavily on public donations. Purchasing stock filled gaps but strained limited budgets. FareShare’s support now ensures a steady, affordable supply, allowing the project to reach more families reliably.
Impact on Service Users
A service user shared: “I first came to the social supermarket when things were really tough at home and I couldn’t see a way forward. The food took the pressure off straight away, but what made the biggest difference was the way the team listened, supported me, and connected me to other help. It wasn’t just about getting through the week – they gave me the confidence and tools to start sorting out my debts and improving my situation. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without that support.”
Advice for Other Organisations and Most Useful Products
“Do it! The team are great to work with and are so diligent in sourcing a good, steady supply of stock. It eases the burden on our team as we only have to place a weekly order.” Service users benefit most from everyday staples like rice, cereals, tinned meat and fish, fruit, and vegetables. Fresh produce, dairy, bread, and children’s snacks are highly valued. Essential household items such as toiletries, cleaning products, and nappies also make a significant difference.
Impact of FareShare Food and Christmas Support
FareShare enables Kickstart Social Supermarket to provide a wider variety of nutritious food, stretch resources further, and ensure families receive essentials, helping to move beyond crisis support to restoring dignity and building resilience. Christmas is a particularly challenging period due to higher financial pressures. Demand rises, and families face additional stress. The project provides extra food and essentials along with festive touches such as toys and pyjamas, helping families feel supported, valued, and less isolated during the holiday season.
