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Frequently Asked Questions

This page hopes to answer any questions you may have about Gussies Kitchen Pantry Shop. If your question isn't below then please don't hesitate to contact us for the answer. 

How do I become a member?

You need to obtain a referral from a professional person. We currently work with:

  • Chesterfield Food Bank

  • Derbyshire Unemployed Workers Centre

  • Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB)

  • P3 

  • Derbyshire Law Centre

  • Job Centre

  • Social Prescribers (@ your GP Surgery)

  • Local Councillor

  • Chesterfield Borough Council Tenancy Support 

  • A Housing Association

  • Derbyshire Discretionary Fund

  • Rural Action Derbyshire or Feeding Derbyshire 

  • Local Schools

  • Social Workers

  • Elm Foundation

  • Other Food Provisions​

You can come along to our morning session to obtain the referral by sitting and having a discussion about what has brought you to needing food support.

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I have a referral already, is there anything else I need to bring on my first visit?

We ask that you bring along some proof of the benefits you are claiming, this can be a screenshot of the top of your most recent payment statement on Universal Credit (UC) where it shows your name and address, a letter showing your benefit entitlement or withdrawal of benefit entitlement or any other evidence that could prove that you are experiencing food insecurity. 

I experience anxiety and I'm nervous about coming, is there a quieter time to attend?

If you experience anxiety we recommend that you attend our afternoon session (1pm - 3pm, last entry 2:40pm) Our morning session is usually very busy and can be quite a loud environment. If the afternoon session isn't suitable, please contact us and we can attempt to organise a suitable time for you to attend in the morning to minimise your discomfort. 

How much does it cost to become a member of the Gussies Pantry Shop?

With a referral, it does not cost anything to become a member. However, it does cost a small amount each week.

For the first 4 weeks it will cost £2 per week.

For the following 4 weeks it will cost £4 per week

Then finally it will cost £6 every week there after. 

We do however, expect that our members seek support to help with their current situation that caused them to experience food insecurity. 

If you have been a member before then you will be asked to restart at the £6, if we believe this would not be affordable we will agree an affordable plan.

Can Gussies Kitchen Pantry Shop provide FREE food parcels?

We do not provide free food parcels, our partners Chesterfield Food Bank and other emergency food providers can support you with enough food for 4 days. Please click this link to see where and how you can access this emergency support. Locations | Chesterfield Foodbank

If you are already a member of or pantry and are struggling financially then please contact us or come and see us to discuss your current situation.

What type of food do you get from Gussies Kitchen Pantry Shop?

We provide a variety of different items.

  • Tinned foods (veg, meats, meals etc)

  • Cooking sauces and other jarred products

  • Cereals 

  • Dried foods such as pasta and rice

  • Fridge and Freezer foods

  • Fruit and vegetables

  • Bread

  • Treat items such as crisps, pop and snacks.

  • Toiletries (wash products, sanitary products, etc)

  • Baby products (nappies, wipes, foods and some formulas)

  • Cat and dog food

You are entitled to a set amount of products from each of the above groups with each membership.

Do you cater for dietary/cultural needs?

Yes, we are able to cater for those with dietary and cultural needs, sometimes this can cause restrictions but we will do our best to provide your household with food that is suitable. 

How can I pay?

We can take cash or card payments, we operate with a square system and have the ability to take contactless payments using your mobile phones too. There is no minimum payment for card.

Are there additional items I can buy?

Yes, we have the following

  • Gussies Jumble shop - the wonderful volunteers except donations of seasonal jumble regularly and they sort through and display it for our members. For a small donation our members can take home 2nd hand wardrobe items.

  • We receive flowers from the supermarkets that share their surplus food with us, for a small donation of £1 you may take a bunch of flowers or plant. 

  • We occasionally have raffle tickets for sale with a chance to win a prize. 

All proceeds from these additional items go back into providing food for the Pantry shop.

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