Fresh boost for Okehampton’s Green Box food project

A community food scheme at Okehampton Primary School has received a welcome boost, with catering company Educatering now delivering weekly donations of fresh fruit and vegetables to support the Green Box Okehampton project.

Educatering, a family-owned Devon business supplying restaurant-quality, locally sourced food to schools across the South West, has stepped in to enhance the nutritious offering of the £2.50 food boxes.

Launched in January 2025 by Dartmoor Multi Academy Trust (DMAT), the Green Box scheme provides affordable food to local families using surplus supplies that would otherwise go to waste. The initiative is backed by LiveWest funding and ongoing support from FareShare South West, and aims to ease household budgets while tackling food waste and promoting sustainability.

The new partnership with Educatering will see families receive an even greater variety of fresh produce in their weekly boxes.

Melissa Trudgill, Community Engagement Lead for DMAT, said:
“The addition of Educatering’s produce has made a big difference. Our aim was always to provide good, wholesome food while supporting sustainability. Now, with these generous fresh donations, families are receiving even more variety and quality. We’re incredibly grateful.”

Each Thursday, families can collect their boxes after school while sharing tea and conversation with staff and volunteers. Organisers say this informal setting helps reduce stigma and fosters a sense of community.

Melissa added:
“This is an environmental and community project. There is no judgement - this project is open to all - just good food, friendly faces, and a shared sense of purpose. We hope to grow the scheme further with cooking workshops and seasonal extras.”

Educatering founder and director Jamie Walsh said:
“We are incredibly proud and thrilled to be supporting the Green Box Okehampton project. It's an inspiring initiative that not only reduces food waste but also delivers real, tangible benefits to the families of the DMAT community. Being part of something that strengthens both nutrition and community connection aligns perfectly with our values at Educatering.”

For families, the project is already making a difference. One parent, Laura (name changed), explained:
“We’re making sweet potato curry tonight! This box helps me feed my kids well without feeling like I’m just getting by. It’s a lifeline.”

With more fresh produce now included, Green Box Okehampton is continuing to show how environmental care and community spirit can combine to provide practical support for local families.