Hambleton food bank sees requests for help quadruple due to Covid-19

Hambleton Foodshare coordinator Alison Grainger is pictured with volunteers Anthony Harker and Tony Woodhouse replenishing the cupboards.

Hambleton FoodShare says it has seen the need for emergency food parcels rise dramatically during the Covid-19 pandemic.

In a message of thanks to members of the public who have helped the served over recent months, chairman Michael Webster said for need for emergency food parcels had quadrupled throughout the crisis.

“We want to say a massive thank you to everyone who has supported us through the last four months,” said Mr Webster.

“From those that have donated funds allowing us to buy stock when needed, to our big band of volunteers and to those businesses in the community who continue to support us.

“Without all of this support we would not have managed to have helped so many families.

“Unfortunately we do not anticipate things getting much better as furlough comes to an end bringing with it redundancies.

“But we want to stress that we are here to help. We appreciate it can be difficult as people may feel embarrassed asking for food parcels but we are just a community charity wanting to do our best to help feed those in need, so please do not be afraid to get in touch.”

To receive emergency food help customers must be able to demonstrate their need, primarily by being referred through an agency or by self-referral by ringing 07514244158.

The volunteer-led food store is still open every Monday between 4pm and 6pm at The Living room, Garthway Arcade in Northallerton but only one customer at a time. Please phone first to arrange a time to collect your parcel.

Families who may also be struggling to feed their children throughout the school holidays are also welcome to contact the scheme.

Donations of in date non-perishable food can still be left in Northallerton at: Tesco, Sainsburys, Willow Beck Pub and Restaurant, Zetland Wine Store, Station Hotel and Hambleton District Councils offices at Stonecross and in Bedale and Leeming Bar in the Co-op.

Detail of current shortages are always on the website but at the moment they are in  need of tinned pies, cereal bars, custard, creamed rice, and toiletries.

For further information or for cash donations, call 07514244158 or info@hambletonfoodshare.org.uk or visit www.hambletonfoodshare.org.uk

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*