Our Cause

Community Larders are not food banks. Now that we’ve got that sorted, here’s what we are.

We are a community larder

A community larder is a ‘pop-up’ hub, a place to access food that is surplus, make friends, access additional services and save money on your bills.

Some larders have been set up like your average store. All Community Larders are unique in their own way, “reducing food waste, creating opportunities, engaging with communities”.

Contact Us Now
Blackbird Leys Larder Background Banner

Where Are We? When Are We Open?

We are  currently in the Jack Argent room in the community centre and our opening hours are Wednesday’s 2pm to 5pm.

What Else Does A SOFEA Community Larder Do?

The clue’s in the name. We’re here for your local community. We’re not just a place to access food. We’re a place to stop and chat. To catch up with friends. To connect with people. Lots of the people who choose us could shop elsewhere, but they visit us because they know they’ll always meet a friendly face.

The community larder is also a place for support and advice. Perhaps you need to ask a question about debt or finances. Perhaps you want to know how to access mental health care. Perhaps you’re worried – about your work, about your children, about domestic abuse.

At a community larder, you can find trusted, expert advice that can help make life better.

What’s The Difference Between A Food Bank And A Community Larder?

Food banks do a fantastic and very necessary job helping to support people who are experiencing food poverty. We work closely with food banks, often referring people.

Community larders are designed to support people to live more independently, “a hand up not a handout” a long-term sustainable approach to food insecurity. We care about the person and community as a whole.

In a SOFEA community larder, the food is free, your weekly subscription allows you choose your food, and access other support. This holistic approach is proven, people look forward to visiting our local Community Larders, regardless of their circumstance.

Everyone is welcome!

Join Our Larder Today

Community Support

Latest News In & Around The Black Bird Leys Community

Oxford Cost Of Living Blog Image

Cost Of Living Event - August 2022

Posted 18 August 2022

Read More
Oxford Cost Of Living Blog Image

Cost Of Living Support - Drop-In Sessions

Posted 12 July 2022

Read More
Christmas Light Bus 2021 Blog Image

Christmas Light Bus 2021

Posted 20 November 2021

Read More
IF Oxford The Science & Ideas Festival 2021 Blog Image

IF Oxford the Science and Ideas Festival

Posted: 19 November 2021

Read More
Grab A Jab 2021 - Oxford Blog Image

Grab A Jab - Oxford City Council

Posted: 2 July 2021

Read More
Blackbird Leys Consultation Blog Image

Blackbird Leys District Centre Consultations

Posted: 1 July 2022

Read More
NHS Get COVID Vaccination Blog Image

Get Your COVID-19 Vaccination

Posted: 1 July 2022

Read More
Cookie Consent

By clicking “Accept”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.