Our story: How Mary Smith's Pantry began
Discover the heart behind Mary Smith's Pantry, a community-driven initiative making a real difference in Pimlico . Learn about our origins, our mission, and the dedicated people who make it all possible.
About Mary Smith’s Pantry
Mary Smith’s Pantry is a vital community-run food pantry and support hub located in Pimlico, London. It was founded by local volunteer Mike Smith as a heartfelt tribute to his late mother. What makes us unique is our commitment to accessibility: unlike many traditional food banks, we operate without a referral system, ensuring anyone in need can access our services.
Our services and community impact
For a small fee of £5 per visit, shoppers can select approximately £20 to £25 worth of food, including fresh fruit, vegetables, and pantry staples. More than just a food source, the pantry serves as a welcoming space for residents to socialise over tea and cake. We also occasionally offer essential housing and benefits advice. Our charitable impact extends beyond London, as the pantry has proudly helped fund a children's orphanage in Ghana. We recently moved into a permanent storefront, kindly provided by the council, after operating from temporary storage containers.
Fighting food poverty in London
Our primary mission at Mary Smith's Pantry is to actively fight food poverty within the London community. By providing accessible and affordable food options, we aim to alleviate the burden of food insecurity for individuals and families, ensuring everyone has access to nutritious meals.
"Mary Smith's Pantry has been a lifeline for me and my family. The support and kindness we receive here are invaluable."
A grateful community member