Free supermarket in Crawley receives award from Mayor

Crawley’s first ever ‘free supermarket’ is a store run by volunteers with the sole purpose of providing locals with food, toiletries, and baby essentials without any associated cost.

Over 500 people and services in the area were up for the prestigious recognition but Free Shop was one of seven honoured with an award, hand delivered by Mayor Francis Guidera himself during their Easter event.

Guidera said: “Free Shop Crawley is run by some wonderfully kind and community minded people.

"The support and dedication they offer was deserving of proper recognition and on behalf of the people of Crawley, I was proud to be able to do this”.

In just a few short months, the team at Free Shop, along with the support of local suppliers, have fed almost 5,000 people and have remained open with a click and collect service throughout the latest lock down regulations.

Locals have praised the store and its team for their services and the welcoming and non-judgemental environment it provides.

Richard Alison, age 80, said: "I didn’t realise how many genuine and generous people live in Crawley. People who are willing to help me.

"Money is tight and I lost my wife four years ago and have no children so Free Shop has been a real lifeline."

Free Shop Crawley is open to anyone in need can be found at The Bewbush Centre, Dorsten Square, Crawley, RH11 8XW on Sundays from 1pm-4pm.

Anyone wishing to donate or find out more can visit the website freeshopcrawley.com or contact the team direct on [email protected]