Foodbank urges donors to ‘keep on giving’

There will be a collection of foodstuffs at the Tesco store, Sudden, Rochdale this Saturday (16 March) where all donations will be gratefully received and will make a real difference to those in most need

Volunteers working at Rochdale Foodbank were given facts and figures showing both its success and the growing need for its services within the borough at an ‘in-house’ training and update session for its volunteers held yesterday (12 March) at its premises at 9-10 South Parade.

Since the foodbank opened in November, donations of food from townsfolk now stands at 19.75 tonnes. Food so far distributed to people from across the borough weighs over 14 tonnes.

970 vouchers from various referring agencies have been presented which has enabled the scheme to feed 1750 people, including 520 children.

Rochdale Online spoke to Iain Wight, Foodbank Manager who told: “I expect demand to increase; particularly with changes to the benefits system coming in next month. It’s important for people to keep donating on a consistent and regular basis to keep up with both current and anticipated need.”

The Foodbank was initially set up by local churches and similar projects are now operating all over the country. The Rochdale outlet is staffed by volunteers and is open every weekday from 11.00am - 1.00pm. If you would like to get involved or enquire how you can donate food, you are urged to contact them on 01706 522443 or 07956 337 674.

There will be a collection of foodstuffs at the Tesco store, Sudden, Rochdale this Saturday (16 March) where all donations will be gratefully received and will make a real difference to those in most need.

The growth of food banks across the UK has become a feature of many UK towns and cities since the economic downturn. They have become an unwelcome success story for many although, the work that they do is invaluable for many needy families. Many of those using Foodbank are working but face a daily struggle to make ends meet owing to their low incomes.

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news/71943/foodbank-launch-is-success-story

http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news/74601/amazing-generosity-of-rochdale-people