The Bread and Butter Thing: Food hub ‘life saver’ celebrates third anniversary in Thornhill Lees

Since opening its Thornhill Lees hub three years ago, The Bread and Butter Thing (TBBT) has been providing local families and individuals with access to nutritious, affordable food while helping reduce food waste.

Members can access three bags of food each week, including fresh fruit and vegetables, chilled items, and cupboard staples from just £8.50. Healthy Start cards are accepted, and personal hygiene and other non-food items are also available. 

A member of the hub said: “It has introduced us to new flavours and new products. Saving in cost is a real budget winner for a family with children.

“The amount of fruit and vegetables have been fantastic. The staff are so friendly and helpful. Please keep this service going. It has been a life saver.”

The Bread and Butter Thing opened its first Yorkshire hub in Chickenley in March 2022 before going on to launch a further nine sites around Kirklees, including in Thornhill Lees.

Vic Harper, chief executive of The Bread and Butter Thing, said: “Marking three years in the Thornhill Lees community is something we’re incredibly proud of. Over that time, we’ve seen how access to affordable, healthy food can bring people together, reduce waste and strengthen neighbourhoods.

“None of this would be possible without our brilliant volunteers, whose commitment and care sit at the heart of everything we do.”

Across TBBT’s network, 79 per cent of members report eating more fruit and vegetables, 71 per cent are cooking more meals at home, and 72 per cent feel more connected to their community.

Many save up to £25 a week, freeing up money for other household priorities.

Anyone interested in joining the Thornhill Lees hub can register by texting 07507 237311 with their name, postcode, and chosen hub.

Volunteers are also welcome - find out more at https://www.breadandbutterthing.org/volunteers