National Volunteer Week focusses on Bag-a-Bargain Wirral food co-op

Jun 2 2010 by Jade Wright, Birkenhead News

THIS week is National Volunteer Week, a celebration of the people who give the precious gift of time to their local community.

It aims to give a well-deserved pat on the back to the individuals who give up their free time to help others.

One such orgabisation is Bag-a-Bargain, a fantastic not for profit local food co-op which delivers bags of fresh fruit and vegetables to community venues throughout the Wirral.

“We are all aware of the increasing problem that many communities have in accessing fresh fruit and vegetables,” says Ruth Kelly, North West Food Co-op Adviser.

“Lots of small businesses have shut down in recent years leaving many areas without any local shops.

“Projects like Bag a Bargain, make a real difference by making fresh produce available in local communities where they are needed most.

“What’s more the scheme is able to accept Healthy Start Vouchers, which means that families with young children on a low income can get a bag of fruit or vegetables for free.”

Bag – a – Bargain venues include St Peters Church, The St James Centre, The Salvation Army and Ganneys Meadow.

The smooth running of Bag-a-Bargain is only possible due to the hard work of 28 volunteers.