Situated within the heart of its community and supported by the community, Blandford Foodbank, provides food to the most vulnerable - to those who have nowhere else to go, who find it difficult to make ends meet and who, often, are at their lowest point.  The project has developed to become Blandford Food Bank+ (BFB+) - more than just a Food Bank, offering debt advice, and support during the school holidays through the holiday voucher scheme. 

 

 It is a sad reality that currently in the UK many families and individuals do not have enough money to buy essential food items. Having to choose between paying essential bills or eating, people's lives can be turned upside down overnight. Redundancy, sickness, financial difficulties and low incomes are just some of the struggles people face in our community. Locally in Blandford there are families and individuals in this situation right now.

 

Due to demand, BFB+ have moved to larger premises at the town’s United Reformed Church.  Their new Welcome Room will give those seeking help a much nicer area to sit, have a cuppa and talk to one of their volunteers.  BFB+ are working closely with partners at Sovereign Housing, Shelter and REACH which means that as well as emergency food and debt advice, people will be able to access a range of advice and support. The space can also be used for cooking, community meals and all sorts of activity aimed at building confidence and connectedness.  

 

 Blandford Food Bank+ saw a significant increase in referrals last year - half of these were for those aged 25 - 39 years old. Blandford Food Bank+ gave out 592 food parcels, feeding 1,617 mouths. 108 families were fed during school holidays and support was provided to deal with £150k+ worth of debt. It isn't a privilege to have food, everyone has this basic need - thank you for your support in working towards ending food poverty in Blandford.