Christchurch Food Bank - Hope out of crisis

Hi, its Tracy here from Christchurch Foodbank. Anyone can end up needing the foodbank - suddenly lost a job or a home; benefits delay; illness strikes - in the hour of need, we want the foodbank to be a safe place to find not only immediate help, but support on the journey out of crisis You probably know what a foodbank does: •We receive food from a range of generous donators: churches, schools, businesses, supermarket “bins” etc. •We store that food by type and date at Longfleet United Reformed church •Those in need are referred to us by key agencies such as Council depts., CAB and GP surgeries •We “Meet and Greet” those referred to us (our “guests”), chatting over a cuppa while their food parcel is prepared •During that chat, we discuss a range of other advice and guidance, including budget support, cooking courses etc. •We also offer nappies, baby-milk, pet food etc…. If needed ... and guests leave with 3 days’ worth of food and a glimmer of hope But did you know that as a foodbank-"plus" we also: - run cooking courses, - provide special holiday top up packs for those families normally receiving free school meals, - supply "home-start" packs and key its of furniture to those moving in to accommodation out of crisis (make rooms into a home) - we are just getting trained up in budget coaching - and we are facilitating work with rough sleepers locally as well Can you help us do more? We are looking for 100 people to give £10 per month to meet the costs of running the food bank, and allow us to do even more... We are 25% there, so first target is £500 per month. Thank you!