The aim of the Otley Community Larder is to reduce food waste by collecting surplus food from local retailers and distributing it free of charge to the local community. Our ambition is to help reduce the amount of food that ends up in landfill and to encourage the wider community to play their role in reducing food waste.

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Volunteers will collect surplus food from supermarkets, local producers and food shops to bring back to the larder. Collection points are expected to be in Otley, Yeadon, Menston and Rawdon. 

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Anyone can visit the larder to collect food, not just those who are in food poverty although we will try to prioritise those who need it most. 

 

It is important to say that whilst we share a building with Otley Social Club, the Community Larder is a completely separate operation in its own unit to the rear of the building. There is strictly no alcohol on site. 

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Why are we doing this?

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• To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, in response to the climate emergency - Approximately 8-10% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions relate to food waste!

• To reduce food poverty in our community, with a particular focus on increasing access to fresh food in a area of the town where there is very limited availability - The number of UK children in food poverty has nearly doubled in the last year to almost 4 million.

• To bring people together in a joint enterprise to improve health and well being in our community, and strengthen community links across the whole town

• To provide opportunities for employment and volunteering

• To put the principles of Doughnut Economics into practice for the benefit of our community

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How can you help?

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You can help by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word.

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If you're aware of any shops, restaurants or allotments locally, that have a surplus of food then please send us an email to larder@otley2030.com.

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We are very fortunate to have been given room to use for free, but it does require significant renovation and we will have to contribute towards utility bills. Money raised will go towards the following:

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• Renovation of the space

• Utility bills

• Buying a fridge and freezer

• Shelving units and storage boxes

• Food safety, hygiene, and First Aid training

• Promotional materials

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