The Shelf Diss Community Food Hub
Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford and District is excited to present ‘The Shelf’, a community food hub at our offices on Shelfanger road, Diss that we launched in August 2023.
The Shelf
Monday - 2.30 - 4.30pm
Thurs - 9.30 - 11.30pm
Fri - 2.30 - 4.30pm
The Shelf offers members a wide range of affordable groceries to help people eat well despite the increasing cost of food. The food hub, supported by Norfolk Community Foundation will join Nourishing Norfolk, a community of food hubs across the county.
By collectively working with food producers, suppliers and other charitable organisations, the network aims to provide household essentials at a reduced cost, and also help redistribute items that might otherwise be wasted.
The Shelf membership is £3.50 and will initially be available to those living nearby who are impacted by the rising cost of living. Membership will help us to manage stock, access additional support funds for our customer and report to our funders. We hope to expand membership to a wider area once the hub is established.
What is available?
Affordable Tins and Packets
Fresh, chilled, and frozen food and drinks are available, as well as tinned essentials.
Low-Cost Fresh Food
Fresh fruit, vegetables, bread and other bakery items are available at a good price.
Household Essentials
Low cost household items such as cleaning products, hygiene products and toilet paper.
Free Period Products
Available to all members of The Shelf.
Other Benefits of Membership
Members will also be able to access free, impartial and confidential support from Citizens Advice and other local agencies.
Want to get involved?
If you are interested in finding out more, including becoming a member or referring others, donating food or credit for customers and/or volunteering your time.
What It Means To Be A Shelfie Volunteer
Being a Shelfie Volunteer at Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford and District is about more than just tasks and responsibilities; it’s about becoming a beacon of hope in the lives of those within our community.
Every action you take, from meeting and greeting new clients, assisting with forms, and providing a comforting cup of tea or coffee to stocking shelves and handling deliveries, contributes to a warmer, more welcoming environment. Learning our EPOS system isn’t just about operational efficiency but about ensuring that every interaction within ‘The Shelf’ is smooth and positive, reflecting the core values of our organisation.
Your participation as a Shelfie Volunteer means you are directly giving back to your community, supporting a service that is invaluable to many. Join us, and let’s work together to uplift those in need.
Become A Bestie Of The Shelf
Make a profound difference in your community by becoming a Bestie of The Shelf at Citizens Advice Diss, Thetford and District.
As a supporter, you can contribute in multiple meaningful ways, from donating essential food items to sponsoring a shelf that ensures our members and families in need always find what they need when they visit us. Whether it’s fresh fruits, vegetables, bread, or other staples, your generous donations are the lifeline that keeps our service vibrant and accessible.
As a Bestie of The Shelf, we encourage you to become a champion of our cause in your community. Spread the word, inspire others to join in, and help us create a network of support that extends far beyond the walls of The Shelf.
Free Legal Advice with NCLS
The Shelf is proud to partner with Norfolk Community Law Service (NCLS) to offer free, confidential legal advice right here in the community. NCLS provides support on a wide range of issues including housing, debt, immigration, welfare benefits, domestic abuse, and navigating the family court system. Their experienced advisors are here to help you understand your rights and options—no appointments needed.
Drop by The Shelf every third Thursday of the month to speak with someone in person.
Champion
As a Champion of The Shelf, you will be helping us share updates whether on social media or in your community, about The Shelf and how others can get involved.
Sponsor a Shelf
Sponsor a shelf by contributing towards the cost of keeping them fully stocked for our members and families in need. You can donate as little as £20 per month.
Donate Items
The Shelf is fuelled by generous donations from local businesses that demonstrate their support for our community. Your business can donate items such as fresh fruit, vegetables, bread and more.
Please get in touch. theshelf@cadat.org.uk or pop into the office on a Tuesday or Thursday morning. The Shelf is in The Heritage Triangle car park on Shelfanger Road (1 hour free parking, with ticket), next door to the Diss Youth Centre.
