'Social supermarket' to take over vacant shop
SE Kitchen will open a third shop, adding to the social enterprise's units in Ashford and Ramsgate.
A "social supermarket" that provides affordable food and resources to help people overcome financial difficulties is set to launch its third Kent location.
SE Kitchen is scheduled to open in October at the Pentagon Shopping Centre in Chatham. This new branch will join existing locations in Ashford and Ramsgate.
Operated by Social Enterprise Kent, these food shops aim to redistribute surplus food and offer groceries at reduced prices.
Rebecca Smith, chief executive of the community interest company, stated, "We pride ourselves on creating a supportive, inclusive space where people can access what they need today while building a more stable, sustainable future."
The Chatham store will be accessible to all Medway residents, requiring no referral or membership, and will also serve as a community meeting point.
According to Medway Council, the supermarket will also provide "wrap-around support designed to address the root causes of financial hardship."
Teresa Murray, the council's deputy leader, emphasized the critical importance of access to affordable and healthy food for people's well-being.
She added, "Being able to put this new community supermarket in the heart of Chatham... is fantastic and will undoubtedly support the wider work we are undertaking."