Speaker Rtn Juli Thompson - Inn Churches and Storehouse

Juli told us that Inn Churches was set up in 2009 to provide bed, breakfast and an evening meal for the homeless. They have 800 volunteers but only provide the service during the winter months of December to February.

From this initiative came a realisation that food was being wasted around the area that could be used to feed the hungry and homeless. It is estimated that a third of all food produced is wasted while there are 33,000 children in Bradford going hungry.

They started to intercept food from Marks & Spencer, Morrisons and John Street Market that was going to landfill. They acquired 6,000 square feet on Caledonia street that had been a former underwear factory. They have several operations under the title Storehouse: -

• A pay as you feel shop selling some of the goods they rescued.
• A warehouse that other charities such as food banks could use to supply their needs for perishable food. 17 different community groups come and collect food from this facility.
  
• A cafe which again operates on a pay as you feel / can afford basis.

The operation has 2 full time workers Juli and Jo and 2 part time workers. They have a 3 year plan to generate enough money to pay their running costs. The first year the building is being provided rent free.

Volunteers from the Rotary Club of Bradford Bronte go there every Thursday morning after their meeting to help with the operation.