We love talking about food here at Secret Bristol. Telling you about the hottest restaurants, viral trends and beloved established eateries is what we spend most of our time doing. But we must recognise that food insecurity is a growing concern in Bristol – affecting around 1 in 12 households.
That’s where Bristol Local Food Fund (BLFF) has stepped in. This voluntary project aims to create “a city of food justice” by ensuring all have access to nutritious and affordable food, regardless of background or situation. BLFF fundraises from people and businesses across Bristol, reallocating funds collected to community food projects tackling food insecurity.
Thanks to funds raised by the inaugural Anti Banquet earlier this year in February, and BLFF itself, there’s now £110,000 in grant funding ready to hand out. There’s no limit to the amount local community groups and charities can apply for either – with The Citizens Panel expected to hand out average grants of between £5,000 and £10,000.
Michael Lloyd-Jones, BLFF, said: “We are still overwhelmed by the amount of money raised by the Anti Banquet, and the additional support from individuals and businesses that BLFF has received. Food insecurity throughout Bristol is so prevalent, so we hope to continue these funding rounds with larger amounts every year, supporting community food projects across our city to make a huge difference to those suffering the most.”
How can I apply?
Applications to these essential funds are now open and will close on Monday, June 17. Those applying must support one or more of the five priorities outlined in Bristol’s Food Equality Strategy and Action Plan. This means projects must at least be either: Fair, equitable access; Choice and security; Skills and resources; A sustainable local food system; or Put food at the heart of decision-making.
The grant will prioritise those supporting most affected by food insecurity, including single parents, disabled people, people from black and minority ethnic groups, carers, people identifying as LGBTQIA+, and young people (aged 16-24). You can apply by heading to the Bristol Local Food Fund website here.
How does Bristol Local Food Fund work?
The money raised by BLFF is allocated through what’s called ‘participatory grantmaking’. It’s where people with lived experience of food insecurity decide which community food projects are awarded. Made up of six people, this Citizens Panel hold regular meetings to discuss the grant-giving process.
In 2022, BLFF crowdfunded and distributed £60,000 to support 18 community food projects across Bristol. St Paul’s Adventure Playground received £5,000 of funding that was spent on free food provision for children visiting the playground. Meanwhile, £5,000 enabled Lush Greens in Hengrove to grow 5,431 portions of fresh veg (or 1,713 kg) which was donated directly to two local food banks.
BLFF hopes to increase the amounts raised and distributed into communities and is currently campaigning to raise a further £150,000 by the end of 2024. It’s offering several food-based incentives – including vouchers to some of our favourite restaurants – to those who donate. To find out more about BLFF head here.