When Paulette and her husband moved to the North East of England  a few years ago, everything felt unfamiliar. New town. New home. No friends nearby.

But one thing changed everything: a friend’s Facebook post about Olio.

“I was curious. So I reached out to ask more. From that point on, I was hooked.”

At first, it was the free items on the app that drew her in – bits and bobs for the home, beautiful bunches of flowers, even a few potted plants. Slowly, the couple started to bring their garden to life – all thanks to Olio.

“The chance to avail ourselves of the generosity of Olio connections allowed us, over time, to create a stunning flower display – and even a thriving, productive vegetable patch.”

Soon enough, their garden was thriving  and they began listing their surplus on the app.

“Every now and then, we give away some of our produce on Olio. It feels really fitting – like it’s come full circle.”

But the most unexpected gift of all? Friendship.

“People were just so kind. The generosity on Olio made us feel welcome – like we belonged.”

One day, they found themselves in a tight spot, stranded at Manchester airport with no way to get back to Newcastle. Without hesitation, an Olio connection offered to drive down and bring them home.

“It was completely unexpected – so genuine, so caring. I’ll never forget that moment.”

For Paulette, Olio became more than just an app. It was a way to build roots in a new place. A way to share and be shared with. A way to feel at home.

“It’s given us so much more than stuff. It’s shown us the true meaning of community – where giving and receiving happen freely, and neighbours become friends.”

What do you love most about Olio?

“Olio isn’t just helping the planet – it’s helping people, too. Without it, our lives would be much the poorer. Long live the app – and the amazing people who make it what it is!”