Find all the latest news and events from the foodbank. If you are a member of the press and would like to cover any of our stories please contact us, we'd be happy to work with you.
News and events
Trussell Trust Executive Chairman, Chris Moud was invited to David Cameron's Easter Celebrations at 10 Downing Street recently in recognition of the important work that foodbanks are doing across the UK.
Chris says: 'The Prime Minister's acknowledgement of foodbanks is testament to the incredible work of all those across the UK who have stepped up and launched a foodbank in their towns to stop people going hungry. It's a big well done to everyone involved.'
Since opening on December 1st 2011, Gillingham foodbank has fed a staggering 274 people including 115 children.
We have 38 organisations who are distributors of the vouchers which means they are able to help their clients by referring them to us.
We have had phenomenal support from groups and individuals which means we have collected over 4.3 tonnes of food. However, we have distributed 2.9 tonnes to people in need so the turn over is pretty quick and we are always in need of replenishment!
We pray we continue to be a valuable resource to organisations and their clients, and a valued group in the local area.
Thank you to all those who have supported us so far!
We were overwhelmed by the need of the foodbank this week. On Thursday alone we distributed half a tonne of food. This month we have distributed 900kg of food but we have only had 200kg of food donated. We have a hue shortfall and are in desperate need of food to ensure we can meet the needs of those in crisis.
The large numbers we are seeing in such a short period of time underlines the poverty and need in our town and surrounding area. Due to the large demand we do find we run short on certain items.
We are running low on most things but in particular; treats and biscuits, custard, tinned sponge pudding, tinned meats, Smash, tinned fruit, fruit juice, long life milk.
Your help is very much appreciated and if you can provide us with any of these items please pop in to the Old Library Mondays and Thursdays 10am-12pm. Many Thanks.
Many thanks to Co-op in Shaftesbury, where on Friday 23rd March our volunteers carried out a supermarket collection. The public donated 192kg of food which will be gratefully received by local families in crisis across the Blackmore Vale.
Co-op managers have also agreed to holding 'drop-bins' in their stores to allow food to be donated on a daily basis. Look out for these in Gillingham, Tisbury, Shaftesbury, Blandford and Sherborne.
Thank you Co-op!
Local firm, South West Packaging have shown enormous generosity and support to Gillingham foodbank by donating another 200 boxes to us. The boxes are used for our emergency foodboxes which contain food to last for at least 3 days. These boxes are given to individuals and families in need by professional organisations who identify a need.
Thank you so much South West Packaging for your valuable help!
