A group has been set up to help people in need get access to cheap, healthy food.
The Havering Food Alliance aims to tackle food insecurity and create a sustainable food system in the borough.
The alliance, a collaboration between Havering Council and partners, comes as a response to the increasing cost of living, which has left many people struggling to afford nutritious meals.
It seeks to ensure that all residents can access affordable, healthy food, irrespective of their financial situation, as well as supporting local producers, minimising food waste, and boosting community wellbeing.
Havering Council leader Cllr Ray Morgon said: "As people continue to feel the pinch with higher costs of living, we know many residents are struggling to put food on the table.
"The Havering Food Alliance is an important step forward in co-ordinating efforts and working in partnership to make sure no one is left behind.
"I hope this joined up approach will help support families with access to affordable and healthy food as well as creating a stronger, more resilient food supply system that benefits the whole borough."
Anthony Lowe, chief executive of Tapestry Care UK, said: "Tapestry is proud to work alongside Havering Council to strengthen local food support.
"We’ve helped launch the Havering Food Alliance, a partnership that brings the community together to tackle food insecurity."
The alliance is responsible for the Rainham Food Pantry, which has received positive feedback for providing food as well as offering a social space to reduce anxiety and improve budgeting skills.
With demand for support continuing to grow, the alliance plans to open a second food pantry in Rainham and trial social supermarkets in Harold Hill and Hornchurch.
This expansion will depend on securing more surplus and donated food from local farmers, retailers, and charities such as FareShare, Felix, and Neighbourly.
The alliance is working to identify and fill gaps in local food support services, and will be launching a borough-wide food strategy over the coming months.
Residents needing help or wishing to contribute to the alliance's work can find more information on the Havering Food Alliance website at at www.haveringfoodalliance.org.
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