“It’s when people tell you that I would have been dead if it wasn’t for you that makes you really think,” says Salford Hero Barry Matley as he recalls how the a food club he runs in Salford has grown to supporting 60 households at one time.
After seeing people in Salford struggle after the Covid pandemic along with the cost of living rising, Barry stepped into action and set up a variety of food clubs across Greater Manchester, mostly in Salford.
Barry’s charity work started with Manchester City Mission when he worked for the night shelters to ensure that people were kept off the cold streets of Manchester.
He said: “People were coming and waiting for hours and hours and it was just ridiculous. Some people were coming from about six or seven o’ clock in the morning and we don’t open until 11.”
Pendleton Church is just one of the venues which hosts these food clubs, Family FoodFayre Food Club, opening their doors every Monday and Thursday to anyone who needs it.
The food club uses a combination of donations and reduced food from shops to offer a service whereby paying £4 you can choose up to 10 items to take home.
Barry explained that while food banks are incredible, they offer very little choice to the users. He believes the food club allows people more choice as they can decide which items they would like through a voucher-based system.
From fresh produce to freezer staples and even toiletries, the food club at Pendleton Church offers a wide range of produce.
Barry said: “Everyone is welcome, no matter your background or religion.”
In addition to food stalls, free hot drinks and reduced clothing, NHS services such as free oral health checks and eye checks with prescription glasses available to order are also available.
For the residents of Salford who come to the food club, it’s stability in a world of change. The safe, warm and welcoming atmosphere is granted and by being greeted by Barry smile is always a comforting sight.
Unlike other food banks there is no need to share your income or prove if you need the support. The reduced food is available for anyone who shows up.
Salford Now spoke to a volunteer about his experience working for the food club.
He said: “Because we came from Hong Kong several years before, it helped me to feel the community and help other people so it’s very good for me also.”
Even the volunteers find the sessions a great opportunity to get involved and the sense of community really builds a great network of support
Pendleton Food Club will keep running in respect of Barry’s hard work — despite the struggles he faces.
Barry spends the funds from the previous sessions (the £4 per person) getting all the food and gathering from any local shops – especially shops/bakeries with food that’s close to expiring.
Despite the hardships Barry has faced, he has persevered and remained positive in order to produce an incredible service.
Barry’s positive and ambitious attitude has had a huge impact on the whole of Salford and he efforts have saved the life of so many residents.
• To follow Barry’s journey, visit Family FoodFayre — Food Club on Facebook.
