Food bank in action thanks to helpers (From Malvern Gazette)

Food bank in action thanks to helpers

2:30pm Wednesday 27th February 2013 in News By Tarik Al Rasheed

AN army of volunteers from the new Malvern Hills Foodbank have officially begun the task of feeding vulnerable people in the town.

The foodbank, based at the Howsell Road Industrial Estate in Malvern Link, is now opening its doors twice a week to people who have been referred there by local care providers.

They are given a voucher to hand over in exchange for a three-day emergency food supply.

A 1.5 tonne stockpile of food was built up before the foodbank opened and it seems this will need almost constant replenishment, with the service reported to be in considerable demand.

Spokesman Elonka Soros said: “The demand for support is high.

“The recent cold snap has resulted in more people having to make the choice between heating the home and buying food.

She added: “The elderly and families with very young children are the most vulnerable.

“Many people referred to foodbanks are working in low paid jobs or are on basic pensions.”

Even in its infancy the foodbank, set up as a charity in partnership with the Trussell Trust, is proving a valuable asset to Malvern and surrounding towns and villages.

It aided dozens of families over the Christmas holidays, when it was still weeks away from officially opening, due to an emergency plea from local childrens’ centres, and has recruited about 70 volunteers to help handle the anticipated demand.

Malvern Hills Foodbank is now seeking donations of food to ensure that it can continue to provide for the vulnerable and needy.

Tinned and dried goods that are easier to prepare in households with limited cooking facilities are the order of the day.

Items that are currently in short supply at the foodbank include sugar, instant mash, dried milk, rice, meat and cereals.

Donations can be made at most local churches or anywhere the foodbank logo is on display.

They can also be taken to Lyttelton Well, in Church Street, or directly to the foodbank itself.

Any schools or businesses that would like to organise their own one-off collection can do so by e-mail at info@malvernhills.foodbank.

org.uk in order to make arrangements.