Sat, 24 Jan 2026

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 'People are often in despair - we see it in their eyes'

Charity the Message Trust said the shop was formed in response to "desperate need".

* A charity boss says his community shop selling groceries at a fraction of supermarket prices has become "a bit nuts" due to its success.
* The Message Trust's shop in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester sells donated food at heavily discounted rates and has around 100,000 members across 34 locations nationwide.
* Members pay an annual fee for access to the shop, which costs around 25% less than regular supermarkets.
* The charity provides "wraparound support" including courses on debt management and mental health.
* A member of the shop praised its affordability, saying she can get £20 worth of groceries for just £5 at the shop.
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