Increases in food and energy prices have affected pretty much everyone, but how can you help those in your local community who are most vulnerable while looking after the planet too? Army spouses Stacey Hartness (North Yorkshire) and Claire Boon (Gloucestershire) have both signed up to Olio, a free sharing app that helps to cut down on food and household waste and in turn, reduce food poverty…
STACEY HARTNESS
About me
I’ve been a military wife since 2008 and we have two children. We’ve lived in Catterick Garrison and Larkhill.
How it works
Anyone can sign up via their app and you can see what’s available in your area. Big companies such as Tesco and Iceland regularly use Olio via its food waste heroes but anyone can list an item to share with others. This comes in handy if you’re moving away and have surplus fridge or freezer foods as lots of military families are faced with, so it can be shared not wasted.
My Olio journey
In 2015 Olio started its campaign to put an end to food waste and share with the community instead. Whilst on maternity leave I thought this was a great idea so I signed up to keep me busy and to get out and about spreading the word.
My role
I started off as an ambassador, advertising amongst my friends and family. I signed up as a food waste hero whilst we lived in Salisbury as I loved collecting from others, it gave me the opportunity to chat to people and make friends.
When we moved back to Catterick last year I managed to sign up for a regular Iceland food waste hero collection slot. I’ve managed to help so many families ease the cost of living and build friendships at the same time. I’ve recently signed up to be a digital ambassador too.
My motivation
It’s so important to share things you won’t use as this not only helps the environment but also other families, especially in these times. The app shows you the impact you have made regularly so you can see the carbon you’ve saved and the good you’re doing – it’s a win-win situation for everyone – no food goes to waste and lots of people benefit.
Stacey recommends
I feel this is a great adventure for anyone to participate in, whether you’re collecting from other food waste heroes or distributing to others, it’s such a great feeling knowing the impact you’re having.
During times when partners are away, social interactions are paramount for your mental health and doing it through Olio means you have a focus and help the environment as you go.
CLAIRE BOON
About me
My husband has been in 1 RIFLES for seven years at Beachley Barracks and we’re about to move to Worthy Down.
How it works
Everyone who uses the Olio app and requests food receives support – it’s all completely free. There is also an option to borrow things, which is great if you don’t have funds to buy items such as tools, lawnmowers etc.
My Olio journey
I was introduced by a wife who used it to obtain food for her family. Using the app I discovered that I too could become a food waste hero and collect surplus stock from our local supermarket to help others in the same way. I felt it was important to do my part to prevent the impact made on the environment, more so now that families are going through the cost of living crisis. No one should have to choose between heating and eating.
Another tick in the box is knowing that I can help the spouses that can’t drive and are isolated, especially when our partners are away. It’s a lifeline and prevents young families having to walk several miles to the shops in all weathers.
My role
I’m a food waste hero with an assigned slot at a supermarket to collect surplus stock that would normally end up in landfill. Using the app allows me to upload items for the community to view. They can then request items they wish to collect from me. I try to distribute the food as evenly as possible so that everyone gets a fair share.
My motivation
Olio brings the community closer. Food is the one thing we all have in common. We share stories, create memories, fall in love over great meals. I have made great friends with people I probably would never have met until I started doing Olio. Being isolated on camp away from friends and family can get very lonely.
Helping others should be a natural instinct. Granted, lives are busy, but even the smallest of things helps someone else. For me, sacrificing a couple of hours once a week is the least I should be doing to help reduce the impact waste has on our planet as well as to help families.
Claire recommends
Check the Olio app to find out if food waste heroes are needed in your area. If there are no slots available, request food from heroes (they normally load up in the evenings), it will help connect you to the area while reducing waste and saving money. Be sure to have the storage space for items that need to be kept chilled to comply with food safety – you can train and take the test online with Olio.