Feed Cork: Revolutionizing Food Assistance with a Social Supermarket Model

Feed Cork, a food assistance organization in Cork City, is pioneering a new approach to serving the community. Established in May 2017 at Cork Church on Lower Oliver Plunkett St, Feed Cork has recently evolved from a traditional food bank into a ‘social supermarket.’ This innovative model not only provides essential groceries but also promotes dignity and community engagement.

The Shift from Food Bank to Social Supermarket

Director, Pastor Hamp Sirmans, explains the transition that began in July. Inspired by successful models in Europe like the UK, Italy, and France, the organization embraced the social supermarket concept. Unlike traditional food banks with limited, non-perishable items, Feed Cork’s social supermarket resembles a regular supermarket. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, bread, and frozen goods, enhancing nutritional value for the community.

Personal Journey of Pastor Hamp Sirmans

Pastor Sirmans’ personal history deeply influences Feed Cork’s mission. Growing up in poverty, he understands firsthand the challenges families face. His dedication to solving these issues emerged when he set up a food bank in South Carolina, helping 200 families weekly and establishing other food banks in the area. His experience and expertise led to the creation of Feed Cork.

Founder and senior pastor of Cork Church, Nick Cassidy, sought to initiate a community project. Pastor Sirmans’ background made him the ideal collaborator, shaping Feed Cork’s vision into reality.

The Unique Donation Model

A key feature of Feed Cork is its donation-based system, differing from typical food banks. Clients pay €10 at the till, receiving about €100 worth of groceries in return. This model benefits clients by fostering a sense of contribution and empowerment, creating dignity in the process. “A social supermarket is where there is a small contribution by the client, which not only helps the service operate but studies have shown that it is a huge benefit to clients as they are contributing to their own success,” emphasizes Pastor Sirmans.

Nutritional Focus and Partner Support

Nutrition is a core value at Feed Cork. In partnership with All Fresh Wholesale in Little Island, they provide fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure clients receive balanced meals. The organization also receives donations from Lidl, M&S, and Food Cloud, enhancing the variety of goods available.

Christmas Dinner Initiative

Christmas is Feed Cork’s busiest period, delivering over 800 dinners to families in need. “Christmas is our busiest time of the year. We’re going to deliver over 800 to 1,000 Christmas meals to families who wouldn’t have a Christmas meal otherwise,” Pastor Sirmans stated. The meals, prepared in collaboration with Brook Foods, ensure no family goes hungry during the festive season.

Volunteers Play a Crucial Role

Volunteers are vital to Feed Cork’s operations. Ann Cotter, who has volunteered for five years, stresses the impact of helping those in need. “It wakes you up to what is happening in the city and there are a lot of people who are not in homes, and it’s right across the board, whether you are a foreign national or Irish,” she says.

Naomi Barr, another volunteer since 2019, sees the value in her service. “For a couple of hours, you have someone else to focus on and you realise that you have nothing to complain about [in comparison], thank God,” she adds. Volunteers aim to make a positive impact, especially on children, providing sweets, toys, and jellies to lift their spirits.

Supporting the Ukrainian Community

Recently, Feed Cork has seen an increase in demand due to benefit cuts for Ukrainian refugees. Pastor Sirmans emphasizes their commitment to aiding this vulnerable population. “We are so supportive of that and it’s important to support the Ukrainian population in particular who are dealing with what they are dealing with,” he says.

Getting Involved with Feed Cork

Feed Cork relies on community support to continue its impactful work. To donate, visit https://www.feedcork.com. If you wish to volunteer, contact Feed Cork by email at foodbank@feedcork.com or call 089 273 3324.

Making a difference is as simple as a few steps. Join the Feed Cork community and be part of a network dedicated to providing dignity and support to those in need.

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