Times are tough right now. With prices rising and bills going up, more and more families are struggling to put food on the table.
So here’s some good news. As the cost of living continues to rise, a new Community Grocery is opening in Levenshulme on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, giving local people access to affordable food and support when they need it most.
Based at New Covenant Church on 1 Matthews Lane, the store will be packed with everyday essentials – from fresh fruit and veg to tins, bread, frozen food, cleaning products and toiletries. For just £5 per visit, members will be able to choose 12 items, saving on average £20 per shop.
Membership is open to anyone who’s struggling to make ends meet. It costs just £5 a year, and members can shop multiple times a week.
The store is being run by New Covenant Church in partnership with The Message Trust, which launched the Community Grocery network back in 2020. Since then, it’s helped over 70,000 families across the UK, with five other stores already running in Greater Manchester – including Sharston, Bolton and Harpurhey.
Pastor Michael Oludipe from New Covenant Church said the goal is to offer more than just food. “We believe everyone deserves access to quality food,” he said. “Our Community Grocery store is more than just a place to shop — it’s a hub for connection, sustainability, and empowerment. We want it to become a trusted space where neighbours can not only shop, but also learn and grow as a community.”
In the future, the Levenshulme store will also offer free courses and support sessions – from help with budgeting to personal development and wellbeing.
Andy Hawthorne OBE, Global Chief Executive and Founder of The Message Trust, said the need for this kind of support is greater than ever. “Escalating prices are having a massive impact on everyone’s lives, but for many it’s made life so difficult that they are having to choose every day between heating or eating,” he said. “We can’t stand by and do nothing, so the Community Grocery is here to help – and we’re excited to open a new store in Levenshulme.”
The impact of the groceries has already been huge. One member said, “As soon as I found the Community Grocery, it was like a weight lifted off my shoulders.” Another added, “Joining the Community Grocery has been a complete life changer. Our fruit bowl is always full, and my kids eat as much fruit as they want now – we no longer have to cut back on the fresh things because of the cost.”
If you or someone you know could use a little help, this could make all the difference.
Find out more at communitygrocery.org.uk
Let’s spread the word. Levenshulme, help is here.
