The grocer’s shop that evolved into a powerful community lifeline

It all started with a simple fruit and veg shop. Located in the Chorlton Precinct, Elliott’s was an everyday produce store, originally run by two compassionate women, Stephanie Moore and Becky Elliott.

But as Manchester’s homelessness crisis grew more visible, this little store transformed from a grocer’s to a community lifeline.

The early days of Reach Out to the Community

Stephanie had always been active in her community, but as she saw more people in need on the streets, she felt compelled to act. She began by donating fresh produce to a homelessness outreach program, hoping a warm meal might offer comfort to those sleeping rough in Manchester.

Soon, the store became a well-known collection point, drawing contributions of food, clothes, and even cash from the generous people of Chorlton. Yet, despite the outpouring of support, Stephanie couldn’t shake a growing realisation. Hot meals were helping in the short term, but deeper issues remained unresolved. People were returning day after day, still homeless, still struggling.

“We knew that food was essential,” Stephanie reflected, “but it wasn’t the full solution. We needed to do more than just hand out meals.

“We saw the same faces, the same struggles, and we realised we had to look at what else could be done to support these people in a meaningful way,” Stephanie said.

Determined to make a lasting impact, Stephanie decided to rethink their approach. Instead of merely distributing food, she envisioned a charity that would meet people’s unique needs in a practical, hands-on way.

So Reach Out to the Community was born in December 2017 as a Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO), with the goal of providing comprehensive, personalised support to anyone struggling with food insecurity or homelessness in Chorlton.

The key to Reach Out to the Community lies in its name. Instead of waiting for people to come to them, the team goes out into the streets to make contact, listen, and learn. “We’re not just here to help,” Stephanie explained, “we’re here to listen, to hear people’s stories, and to find out what will actually help them move forward. Sometimes, all it takes is someone really listening to what you need. That’s where real change begins.”

The shop on Wilbraham Road

The charity’s headquarters at 488 Wilbraham Road has become a hub of hope and activity. At the front, shoppers can browse a wide variety of donated items, from clothes and books to household goods, toys, and DVDs. Every item sold helps fund the charity’s work, and every penny goes directly back to help those in need.

Behind the shop floor, a world of compassion and care unfolds. On any given day, the Reach Out team is sorting donations, preparing food parcels, and responding to emergency needs. “It’s a busy place,” Stephanie shared, “and we’re always grateful for every donation, every volunteer, and every helping hand. Without that support, we couldn’t do what we do.”

For those without basic necessities, Reach Out offers essentials like warm clothes, toiletries, and hot drinks. But it doesn’t stop there. Stephanie’s team helps people register with a doctor, apply for benefits, and even complete essential paperwork, providing not just assistance but also dignity.

“Most people don’t realise the barriers to accessing even basic support when you’re homeless,” she said. “We make it easier for people by offering computer access, sitting down with them, and working through it together. It’s about giving people a real chance to get back on their feet.”

A network of support

For Stephanie and her dedicated team of volunteers, Reach Out is about more than meeting immediate needs; they also help by building a community that lifts each other up. They work closely with local organisations and social services, referring clients to additional support when necessary and collaborating to make a broader impact.

“There are so many organisations doing great things in Manchester, and by working together, we can make a bigger impact. We’re all part of this same community, and everyone deserves to feel like they belong here. There are homeless people outside of the city centre, and that’s who we are here to help.

At the heart of Reach Out is a commitment to treating everyone with respect and understanding. Many people who walk into their shop are simply looking for a bit of human connection. “Sometimes, people just need someone to talk to,” Stephanie said. “A smile, a chat, a cup of tea—those small gestures mean everything when you feel invisible. It’s a chance for people to feel seen, respected, and valued.”

Ways to get involved with Reach Out to the Community

As a community-driven organisation, Reach Out to the Community relies on the generosity of its supporters to keep its programs going. Here’s how you can support Reach Out:

• Donate Goods: The charity shop is always in need of high-quality donations. Clothes, books, toys, and household items are all welcome, and special items (like designer clothing) can be sold on eBay to raise additional funds.
• Food and Essentials: Non-perishable food items and toiletries are in constant demand. These are provided to families and individuals through the charity’s food bank, and even small contributions make a difference.
• Financial Support: Every pound donated goes directly toward helping people in need. Donations cover essentials like travel expenses, documentation fees, and housing applications, giving people a path to rebuild their lives.
• Volunteer Your Time: For those with time to spare, volunteering at Reach Out offers a unique opportunity to make a direct impact. Volunteers are needed for tasks like sorting donations, organising the shop floor, assisting clients, and providing a friendly face for visitors.
• Spread the Word: Even if you can’t give time or money, simply raising awareness about Reach Out to the Community helps bring more support. Sharing their story with friends, family, or on social media can make a real difference.

You can find more information about getting involved by clicking here

Looking ahead

Running a charity like Reach Out To the Community is no easy task, and Stephanie admits that the work can be challenging. “It can be overwhelming at times,” she confessed, “but we’re driven by the people we help and the support we receive from the community.

“Knowing that we’re making a real difference keeps us going. We’re always hatching new ideas, whether it’s a fundraiser, a local campaign, or a partnership with another organisation, we’re always thinking of ways to take things to the next level.”

For the residents of Chorlton and beyond, Reach Out to the Community is more than a charity; it’s a place of hope, resilience, and kindness. Every day, Stephanie and her team prove that no act of compassion is too small to make a difference. Their journey from a humble fruit and veg shop to a thriving charity just goes to show what’s possible when people come together to lift each other up.

As Reach Out to the Community continues its mission, Stephanie remains committed to her core belief: that with a little compassion, a listening ear, and a helping hand, we can all play a part in creating a more inclusive and supportive community.

And she invites everyone in Manchester to join—whether by shopping, donating, or simply spreading the word.

You can find out more about Reach out to the Community by clicking here