Many of us are looking for ways to give back and support others during the current pandemic. If you’d like to help local families in need, consider giving food, time or money to the Runnymede Foodbank.
The Runnymede Foodbank provides vital emergency food and support to local people experiencing financial hardship. During the Covid-19 crisis, the foodbank saw an increase in people needing emergency help. To respond to this increased demand, the Foodbank partnered with Runnymede Borough Council, which allocated an 11,000 sq ft unused warehouse in Egham. From this warehouse, the Foodbank/Council team ensured residents’ needs were met with a same-day delivery model in a safe environment with appropriate Covid measures.
In early September, the Runnymede Foodbank reopened its Chertsey centre to clients on Wednesday mornings. Helen Hallett, manager of Runnymede Foodbank said, “It is great to be able to meet with clients face to face again and come back to our home at the Beacon/Revive Coffee shop in Guildford Street, right in the heart of the community.”
Between the end of March and July 2020, 1263 packs were distributed to families helping 2813 adults and children across the borough. The project would not have been so successful if it had not been for the resounding response of residents. Angela Miller from Runnymede Foodbank said, “Our vital work has only been possible thanks to the incredible generosity of local people – and we look forward to a future where that work won’t be needed.” The Foodbank volunteers included The Countess of Wessex, who toured the facility and met volunteers before helping to call a client, pack a food parcel and deliver needed food to the client’s home.
As well as feeding those in the community who are facing a financial crisis, the Runnymede Foodbank gives food aid to those fleeing domestic violence, pregnant and new teenage mums, those leaving prison and the homeless in Runnymede and Weybridge.
If you can donate food, Runnymede Foodbank collection bins are located in many of the local supermarkets including inside the store near the exit. Local stores include Sainsbury’s Chertsey, Tesco Extra in Addlestone, Egham and Ashford, Waitrose Addlestone, Weybridge, Egham and Sunningdale. A full list of participating supermarkets is listed on the Foodbank website (http://runnymede.foodbank.org.uk). Alternatively, the Foodbank is grateful to receive monetary donations to allow them to continue their valuable work. The donation link is available on the Foodbank website as well.
If you think you may be able to support Runnymede Foodbank through donations of your time and skills, please contact the Foodbank at volunteer@runnymede.foodbank.org.uk to express your interest.