Part Discount Grocer, Part Social Connection: Defining Elements of Social Supermarkets

Abstract

The community sector performs an important function in providing emergency food relief, yet food insecurity is often a chronic issue due to poverty and social exclusion. Progressive food provision models present opportunities to improve voluntary food relief services that are dominant in many countries. Informed by research with clients indicating a preference for blended service models that go beyond food provision, two government agencies partnered with a social enterprise and academics to pilot a social supermarket model. This research article (a) briefly summarizes international evidence on social supermarkets’ characteristics and offerings, (b) describes a process used to collaboratively develop a social supermarket incorporating universal access and social supports, and (c) presents a rubric defining elements of a social supermarket. Applicable to other community sector settings, the rubric emphasizes dignified access and service, plus opportunities for social support and connection, which are important elements in pathways out of food insecurity.

Food provision to support improved nutrition and well-being of people experiencing disadvantage – perspectives of service providers

“…A recent evaluation of the potential for implementing a social supermarket model in Australia, combining elements of community food relief services, social enterprise, social services and employment pathways, has yielded promising results. (42) The implementation of this model was relatively straightforward and had positive outcomes, such as fostering social connections and increasing accessibility to nutritious food options, consistent with the goals of providers in our study.…”

“…One notable project aligning with the charter's principles is the Social Supermarket expansion project (42) . This initiative explores the potential of local blended service models in South Australia, combining food, employment pathways, social services and social enterprise components in single-site hubs or collaborative inter-agency alliances.…”