Midlothian Pantry Network: Strengthening Communities and Reducing Food Waste

The Midlothian Pantry Network launched in January 2025 as a Network Sharing Scheme for local Food Pantries, providing a vital service for communities across Midlothian.

With the increasing pressures of the cost-of-living crisis, the network ensures that food, resources, and knowledge are shared equitably among local pantries while actively reducing food waste.

A Space for Support and Distribution

At the heart of the network is a central space based at Mayfield & Easthouses Development Trust (MAEDT). This space serves as a storage and distribution centre, receiving food donations and coordinating deliveries to food pantries throughout Midlothian. Participation in the network is free for all pantries, making it an accessible and collaborative initiative.

Preventing Food Waste and Promoting Sustainability

In the first 6 weeks of operation, the Midlothian Pantry Network has distributed over 630kg of food to local pantries.  By centralising storage and distribution, the network is helping to reduce food waste, avoid multiple journeys for food pickups and helps pantries access additional food sources. Food is stored at the network until it is required, helping pantries manage stock effectively and avoid unnecessary waste.

Midlothian’s Food Pantries: A Lifeline for Communities

The Midlothian Pantry Network ensures that food assistance is available six days a week through pantries operating in different locations:

• Mayfield & Easthouses Development Trust Pantry
  • Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:30 AM – 2:30 PM
• Gorebridge Community Development Trust Community Pantry
  • Tuesday: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Central Dalkeith and Woodburn Pantry
  • Friday: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Newtongrange Development Trust Community Pantry
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Cyrenians Community Pantry (multiple locations)
  • Bonnyrigg Rose: Monday, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
  • Danderhall Church: Tuesday, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Danderhall Community Hub: Thursday, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
  • Pitcairn Community Centre, Bonnyrigg: Friday, 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

The coordinated approach ensures that food is available when and where it is needed. Community Pantry membership is free and open to anyone who lives in the catchment area of each pantry. For a small fee members can shop once per week and can usually purchase items that would normally cost up to £20.  Shoppers are also offered FREE fresh fruit and vegetables, sanitary products and bakery items.

The pantries within Midlothian also provide access to other support agencies, whilst offering a dignified and empowering way for people to shop locally, save money and reduce food waste. The Midlothian Pantry Network is helping these pantries keep their shelves stocked and ensure an equitable share of resources.

How You Can Support the Midlothian Pantry Network

The Midlothian Pantry Network relies on the generosity of the community and local businesses to keep its shelves stocked. Regular food drives are held at local supermarkets, offering residents an opportunity to donate food items and support those in need.

Upcoming Food Drive Dates:

• Saturday 1st March – Tesco, Hardengreen, Dalkeith
• Saturday 26th April – Sainsbury’s, Straiton, Loanhead
• Saturday 31st May – Asda, Straiton, Loanhead
• Saturday 26th July – Sainsbury’s, Loanhead
• Saturday 27th September – Asda, Loanhead
• Saturday 26th October – Sainsbury’s, Loanhead
• Saturday 29th November – Tesco, Hardengreen, Dalkeith

You can play a vital part in tackling food insecurity and making Midlothian a more resilient and supportive community by donating food to the Midlothian Pantry Network at one of food drives listed.

The Midlothian Pantry Network is more than just a food distribution system – it’s a network sharing scheme working towards food equity and sustainability. By creating a network of support, Midlothian is taking proactive steps to address food poverty, share resources and create a community driven approach to helping others.

For more information or to get involved, reach out to your local Community Pantry. Together, we can make a difference.