Thanks to the generosity of a local businessman, the Somer Valley Foodbank now has a new home to store their 6 tonnes of non-perishable food, following a recent media appeal.
Somer Valley Foodbank Chairman, Paul Woodward, said: “This was the answer to our prayers and the new offer came along at the right time following the articles in the local press.
“There were several offers made to us, but this businessman’s was the best for our operation.
“The foodbank management team would like to thank our previous landlord who was most generous and helpful with the arrangement we had, it was just unfortunate that we had to leave.
“It had been a very useful warehouse for us to have for the last five years. We fully understand the need to increase the rent but it was beyond our means to continue there.”
Foodbanks provide three days of emergency food to people who need it the most. Professionals such as health visitors, social workers and the CAB identify people in crisis and issue them with a Foodbank voucher.
The voucher can be taken to a Foodbank distribution centre where a friendly team of volunteers will offer a cup of tea and help people with their food needs.
With more than 70 volunteers collecting and transporting food, helping in distribution centres, and providing support to those who visit, the Somer Valley Foodbank is one of the biggest volunteer-led projects in Bath and North East Somerset.
Of the 2,000 people who receive help each year, they are referred to the Foodbank for a variety of reasons, such as being on a low income, benefit delays, benefit changes, debt, ill health, and unemployment etc.
The location of the new storage warehouse can’t be made public, but those who need Foodbank support are able to visit one of the charity’s distribution centres each week in Midsomer Norton, Paulton, Radstock or Peasedown St John.
“We would also like to thank the local press for their support and to the community who continue to donate food for us to hand out to those who are referred to us by local agencies,” added Paul.
For more information about the Somer Valley Foodbank visit www.somervalley.foodbank.org.uk.
