More Social Grocery Stores Needed

In Search of Hope – by Sam Gannon

Seconded to the parish of Tililngdon, the Reverend Dolores has been presented with a challenge.

She’s living in an antiquated house and she’s cold. Furthermore, her new Bishop, Bishop Alice does not approve of ‘showgirls in dog collars.’

Determined to prove the Bishop wrong, she sets about warming her house – who cares if it smells of horse! There is the crochet club, jumble sale, and soup run to organise. And this year, the church bells will ring, no matter what threats are made. Even more so, the newly formed choir will spread a little joy this Christmas, even though they can’t sing – yet! And with a little help from Phil, her bassist, this year could be full of magic.

However, she has a fight on her hands as the townies out in Knob Hill – she must stop calling it that, are trying to stop her from ringing her bells. When Krystal with a K decides to do some volunteer work, Dolores sets out to see just how committed she really is.

Up to her ears in granny squares and squawking choristers, Dolores is revving up for Christmas, yet a deeper darker secret is beginning to emerge!

A secret that could blow the whole parish apart and put Dolores in danger.

(available from Amazon)

During the 13th Meeting of Food Banks Against Hunger, held at the Jesuit College, Rita Andrade, the Regional Secretary for Social Inclusion and Citizenship stated that she firmly believes that those in need should have access to ‘Social Grocery Stores.’

The creation of Social Groceries, managed by the Food Bank Against Hunger, in partnership with the Regional Secretary for Social Inclusion and Citizenship, is an innovative project in the Region. The goal of the social grocery store is to give more dignity to families, by providing a ‘local’ social store, that allows people to select the products they need. Purchases are paid for through a family credit system.

Currently, there are three social grocery stores on the island. These are located in Ribeira Grande, run by ASA – Association of Development of Santo António, in the Hospital District and managed by the Association Luís de Camões, and in Água de Pena, Machico.

Social grocery stores are supplied by donations, thanks to several existing regional partnerships against food waste. Food banks were created to combat food waste and recover daily surpluses from industry, agriculture, markets, and distribution networks while promoting sustainability.

Samantha Gannon

info at madeira-weekly.com

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