Essex Freemasons honoured with plaque for support at Purfleet Pantry
Essex Freemasons recognised for vital support to Purfleet Pantry refurbishment
Essex Freemasons have been honoured with a plaque at the Purfleet Pantry in recognition of their support in refurbishing the facility. The recognition reflects a £5,000 donation towards the refurbishment; alongside wider practical support provided to the project.
The 100% volunteer-led Purfleet Pantry, which also acts as a community hub, provides local residents with access to affordable food and essential items. It also serves as a signposting network, supporting those seeking help for alcohol and drug-related issues.
It offers a membership scheme open to all local people, with a £5 one-off fee giving access to reduced-cost groceries. A £5 shop typically provides around £25 worth of goods, helping households make meaningful savings, alongside access to unlimited consumables such as bread, fruit and vegetables.
The pantry and café were originally launched through a partnership between Thurrock Council, the Purfleet on Thames Community Forum, Peabody Trust and Thurrock Community and Voluntary Services (CVS), with the space transformed from an empty unit into a fully operational community facility.
Attending the presentation were Chris Hicks, Provincial Grand Charity Steward, Steve Bruyel, Deputy Provincial Grand Charity Steward, and David Barton, Provincial Community Engagement Lead. David Barton first connected with councillors and the Purfleet Pantry team at the Pride of Essex Awards 2025 and has remained in contact since.
The presentation was organised by Councillor’s Lee Watson and Aaron Green, alongside Lynn Gittins, Thurrock Food Partnership Coordinator who said, “You’re all just amazing, thank you for everything you do.”
Further support has been provided through the Cross Keys Community Fund (CKCF) and the Orsett Masonic Community Fund (OMCF), including significant food donations and an offer of volunteer assistance to improve storage and operational space.
As part of the refurbishment works and ongoing engagement, items no longer required by the pantry were repurposed by CKCF and OMCF to support other local initiatives, including the Thurrock Play Network and Chadwell St Mary Boxing Club, demonstrating a practical, hands-on approach to community engagement and reuse of resources.
Nationally, community pantry initiatives are playing an increasingly important role. ‘Your Local Pantry’ which supports more than 120 pantries across the UK, reports that members have saved £5.76 million over the past year and £10.5 million over the past two years. Its ‘Places of Hope’ report also highlights how pantries are becoming central to community life, giving members a greater voice and helping to build stronger local connections.
David Barton, Provincial Community Engagement Lead, said: “The Purfleet Pantry is delivering practical support locally while also acting as an important community hub. As a fully volunteer-led initiative, it highlights the impact that dedicated individuals can have in supporting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. It is important that projects like this continue to receive backing.”
To find out more: https://www.yourlocalpantry.co.uk/
Photos:
Top: Steve Bruyel, David Barton and Chris Hicks with the volunteer Purfleet Pantry Team.
Below: Left Frame L-R David Barton, Chris Hicks and Steve Bruyel proudly standing before the plaque. Right Frame: Off-loading groceries for the Pantry.
