MANY community groups -- which are the focus of our first Pride of East Lancashire award -- are geared towards one particular cause, however great or small.
But a number of community and voluntary groups have other positive repercussions.
Jigsaw Pantry, in Clitheroe, works firstly to promote social inclusion, but there are a number of additional benefits for the whole community. The food is all vegetarian and predominantly organic to promote healthier eating.
And the organic produce, including cheese and vegetables, is all bought from the area to benefit local farmers.
Jigsaw Pantry was set up two years ago by Trinity Community Partnership and is backed by partners including the European Social Fund, Ribble Valley Borough Council and Lancashire County Council.
Its principal aim is not to make money, but to work towards social inclusion so people from all walks of life, and of varying abilities, can have access to opportunities.
The organisation offers training courses in food hygiene, commercial baking skills, food preparation, health and safety, first aid, and retail skills to people with learning difficulties, or disabilities.
Gaynor Baldwin, team leader at the Moor Lane outlet, said: "This is a really important venture. They make a stand for people with learning difficulties to further their working abilities. They train here, then a lot either get employment in Jigsaw Pantry, or move on to other bigger companies."
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