By Rachel Alexander
Copyright birminghammail
A new community shop opened in Palfrey yesterday offering low cost essentials for Walsall residents. The Carpathian Community Shop can be found inside the Walsall Cultural Centre on Milton Street. READ MORE: New HMO plans for fire-hit Willenhall pub Service users can find pantry staples, toiletries and fresh surplus produce, at budget-friendly prices. The store operates a membership model, with an annual fee of £5, and is open six days a week. It is run by Nash Dom CIC, a non-profit organisation which already offers a community fridge inside the centre. CEO of Nash Dom CIC, Juraj Modrak said everyone can be accommodated with plant-based, vegetarian and halal-friendly options. It is funded by Walsall Council’s grant programme which launched earlier this year to support not for profit community shops. The Carpathian Community Shop is the latest addition to the borough-wide network of community-run stores, with existing sites in Bloxwich, Bentley, Darlaston, Lucy’s Pantry and Blakenall. The council said the store shows a commitment to zero waste by using surplus produce and promoting sustainability, and it will create opportunities for cultural exchange through food and shared traditions Juraj Modrak said: “We’re very excited to open a shop that brings together people from across the Carpathian region – Ukraine, Romania, Slovakia, Poland and beyond – in Walsall. “The name ‘Carpathian’ symbolises a shared heritage and common values. But importantly, this isn’t just an Eastern European shop – it’s a place for everyone in Palfrey. “We’ve made sure there are plenty of plant-based, vegetarian and halal-friendly options, so no one is left out. Our goal is to celebrate diversity while building a stronger, resilient community together.” Councillor Pardeep Kaur, portfolio holder for housing support and resident access at Walsall Council, said: “We’re proud to be supporting the expansion of Walsall’s community shop network, ensuring that help is available where it’s most needed. “The rising cost of living is affecting many in our borough, and these community-run spaces offer both practical support and a welcoming environment for everyone.”
