After years of supporting local families and bringing people together, the Foodshare at Martin Wilson Primary School in Castlefields, Shrewsbury, will close following its final session on Sunday 19 July 2026.
As this chapter draws to a close, it is an opportunity to reflect on how the Foodshare began and to celebrate the positive impact it has had on the local community.
The Foodshare’s story began during the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the most challenging periods many families have faced. Wanting to support school families and maintain vital connections at a time of uncertainty, Headteacher David and his wife, Joanna, started delivering food directly to households within the school community. As the demand for support grew, Shrewsbury Food Hub began providing food to be included in weekly shopping bags distributed across the area.
When the opportunity arose to establish a regular Sunday Foodshare, Martin Wilson Primary School generously offered its facilities, giving the project a permanent and welcoming home. Joanna kindly agreed to lead the initiative, and a call for volunteers was shared across the community. The response was overwhelming. Volunteers came forward in numbers, a dedicated team was formed, and the Martin Wilson Foodshare was born.
Over the years, it became much more than a place to access food. The Foodshare created opportunities for people to meet, talk and support one another. For many, it offered friendship, companionship and a sense of belonging, alongside access to good-quality surplus food that might otherwise have gone to waste.
As the Foodshare reaches the end of its journey, we would like to thank every volunteer, supporter, donor and visitor who helped make it such a valued part of community life. Together, they created something truly special—an outstanding example of community spirit, kindness and the power of sharing resources for the benefit of others.
While the Martin Wilson Foodshare is closing, support remains available locally. Anyone looking for a Sunday Foodshare is warmly welcomed at St Giles Church, Sutton Way, Shrewsbury, SY2 6EH.
Most importantly, we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of the Martin Wilson Foodshare story. Its legacy will be the countless acts of generosity, friendship and community connection it inspired along the way.