A YORK MP said she was “struck” after paying a visit to a ‘sharehouse’ in the city to see the work they are doing to support those in need in the local community.

York Central MP, Rachael Maskell, visited The Collective Sharehouse at the former site before it moved to Clements Hall in the city.

Volunteers opened The Collective Sharehouse in December last year in response to footballer Marcus Rashford’s campaign against food poverty and the effects of the pandemic.

Maskell said she was “struck” by how welcoming the volunteers are to residents.

“People were so grateful to be able to top up on food, at a time when low pay and social security payments are insufficient to even meet basic needs”, she added.

The volunteers accept donations and distribute food and essential items such as toiletries and nappies.

The MP went on to say: “The food at the Collective Sharehouse certainly provided a good stable diet, and it was good to see that they had fresh vegetables there as well as non-perishable items and hygiene products.

“It was also lovely to see there were also clothes for children available, as recycling clothes is good for the environment as well as the community.”

In visiting the sharehouse, Maskell talked to volunteers who have “really enjoyed” meeting with the public, witnessed people donating and collecting food and noticed the friendly way everyone was greeted and made welcome.

Due to the generosity of local people, the sharehouse has been able to support many families across York in the light that welfare support and low paid work is just not providing enough to families who also need to pay rent, bills and meet other needs.

The MP added: “This project is another testimony to the amazing support the community is providing through these challenging times.

“I want to thank all those who are volunteering and donating food, hygiene products, and clothes.

“Next time you’re shopping, please consider adding an extra item to your trolley or basket if you can.”

The Collective Sharehouse has moved to a long term home in Clements Hall in Nunthorpe Road and opens on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9am to 11am and on Wednesdays from 5pm to 7pm.