Community supermarket offers cut-price fruit and vegetables for residents of Lewisham estate

A community supermarket offering discount fruit and veg for residents of a historic estate has opened.

The Pepys Social Supermarket opened on Friday, without the hoped-for fanfare but with 31 residents in a socially-distanced queue for food.

The supermarket offered appointments to its new members who came in one at a time.

Resident volunteers showed how much they care for their neighbours
by delivering shopping to those who were vulnerable throughout the Pepys Estate – completed in 1966 on the site of the former Chief Naval Dockyard.

Developed by coordinator Stella Headley and supported by Lewisham Homes, it offers members up to £30 of fresh fruit, veg and household groceries per visit for a weekly membership fee of £3.50.

Stella, along with Lewisham Homes community manager William Cooper and a team of dedicated resident volunteers, were determined the supermarket would open as planned for months.

Resident Sinead said: “It was brilliant – It’s so nice when you see it all come together. The people – the customers and volunteers – made it so special.”

Sarah, also a resident, said: “Yes, we supply low-priced products to supplement weekly shopping, which helps people on a tight budget.

“But it also brings together people who would otherwise just walk past each other – even just a smile, a nod or supporting each other with their shopping. That’s the bit I love the most.”

One shopper added: “Good work today, you all have really done Pepys Community very proud and helped so many people. Thank you.”

Stella said: “The project would particularly welcome donations, non-perishable items and educational board games, puzzles, quizzes and items to keep the children, young people and those who are isolated from being bored in these
challenging times.”

The Pepys Social Supermarket is based at the 2000 Community Action Centre, 199 Grove Street, Deptford, SE8 3PG.

Residents on the Pepys Estate can apply to become a member by signing up online here.
For more details call 07769813799 or email Pepyssocialsupermarket@gmail.com