Masterchef star helps launch Newquay Foodbank

The community store, opened by Newquay Foodbank on Wednesday 17th June at Age UK Cornwall (Govenek Community Hub), Crantock Street, will soon help people move on from free emergency food support.

The store will provide an affordable, supplementary food shop, practical information such as budgeting and wellbeing guidance, and a welcoming space for registered foodbank members or those in temporary accommodation.

The Stores project lead, Fliss Pearce, said: “It is important at Newquay Foodbank to see people who have needed our help take steps towards regaining their independence through a wraparound approach that begins with a dignified shopping experience.

“We will have a selection of fresh, tinned, chilled and frozen goods at The Stores, and our members can choose to pre-pay for their weekly top-up shop.

“Alongside this, people can seek guidance from other support organisations on matters such as health and finances or simply call in for a cuppa and a natter.”

MasterChef 2026 semi-finalist Frankie Dunn, who is the sister of Fliss, came along on the day to cook up a feast for guests and foodbank members, making beef and veggie enchiladas followed by fruit crumble from items available at the pantry.

She said: “I believe everyone should have access to good quality, healthy food that doesn’t cost a fortune and I hope to inspire people by cooking a tasty meal from goods they can find at The Stores.”

Members attending the opening at Govenek Communiyty Hub commented that the experience made them feel like they were “actually shopping” and not at a foodbank, that the fresh food and vegan options are a bonus, and they appreciated having products they hadn’t been able to treat themselves to for a long time.

Joao said: “I love the variety and choice, and I will definitely be back as this will be really good for me.”

Open every Wednesday

The Stores will open every Wednesday with the support of Newquay Foodbank’s volunteer team, Age UK Cornwall staff and volunteers, and external partners such as FareShare South West and Your Local Pantry.

Jan Rogers from Newquay and a volunteer at the foodbank for five years said many people can find themselves reliant on it, adding: “Introducing the community store gives them the opportunity to break away from foodbank dependence and the chance to budget their money while becoming more independent and self-sufficient.”

The Mayor of Newquay, Cllr Drew Creek, joined other guests to find out more about how The Stores will operate.He said: “We know we have people in Newquay that are struggling and this will help them and the many children who are below the poverty line.This volunteer supported service is one I am very happy to champion.”

Crowdfund and help support the project

Newquay Foodbank also has a Crowdfunder running to 26 June where donations can be made to help sustain The Stores for the long term.

Visit crowdfunder.co.uk/p/newquays-community-pantry to contribute and help those in need.

Find out more

Govenek Community Hub

Recently, Govenek has rebranded its venue to transform it into a dynamic community space focused on helping individuals thrive in later life. Through collaboration with clients, stakeholders, and statutory services, Govenek has co-created a range of activities and clubs, including:

• Tech and Tea
• Happy Voices
• Carers Group
• The Memory Hub
• Knit and Natter
• The Friday Club
• The Social Circle
• Nature Connections 

• In addition to the above, Govenek also offers The Charabanc Club, community lunches, and range of events.Stay tuned for more updates, as we encourage other small groups to make use of this vibrant space. We are also collaborating with partners and colleagues across the Community Hub Network to shape Govenek's future.

Newquay Foodbank

Newquay Foodbank is an independent charity, founded in 2011 to support people in regaining financial independence. It achieves this by providing food and other essential items to address immediate need, and wider wellbeing and financial guidance and support plans through collaboration with other organisations. 

The Stores

The Stores community pantry is designed to help people transition from free emergency food to affordable, dignified shopping, offering choice, stability, and a stepping stone towards financial independence.  It aims to reduce reliance on foodbanks long-term, with more people feeling supported, confident, and in control of their food choices. The Stores will also provide a welcoming space for connection and access to practical support such as budgeting and wellbeing guidance. Food at The Stores is sourced via a mix of donated and purchased items. The money raised via the Crowdfunder will support essential equipment costs, ongoing stock purchases, and staff and volunteer training. It will also ensure the delivery of a safe, welcoming, and sustainable service from day one.