Food For Thought
Malmesbur y and District Foodbank was set up six years ago. Since then we have been helping people needing assistance for a myriad of reasons, including health afflictions, mental health issues, addiction issues, delays in
Universal Credit coming through or benefits changing and sudden homelessness,” explains project manager Gill Smith. “This year, due to Covid-19 we have also been helping a number of people who have lost their livelihoods, or whose working hours have been dramatically reduced.
“We are suppor ted by our local supermarkets and of course we are ver y grateful indeed for the generous donations we receive from the public and local organisations, too. If you are donating to your local food bank, please, please do check to see what par ticular items they are asking for. We have a wish list on our website which is frequently updated, as often there is a surplus of some items and a shor tage of other items that we want to provide to our clients.
“In addition to food items we also supply essential items such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo, soap, sanitar y products, nappies, razors and shaving foam, cleaning products and tissues – all these items are ver y welcome, especially as they don’t go out of date. All food banks would welcome cash donations as an alternative so that they are able to buy items they have run out of.
“At Christmas, the timing of donations is critical for us. Most food banks like ours will want to give out Christmas hampers to their clients but items for these need to be donated to your food bank well in advance. For us, our deadline would be early December to allow us to be able to distribute them all in good time. And again, please check what items are needed. We received so many Christmas puddings last year, that we have enough for this year too!
“Suppor ting your local food bank is a wonder ful thing at Christmas and at all times of the year. Please do help us to help others in need with the items which are most needed, at the right time.”