Bassetlaw Food Bank is settling into the new year, but also reflecting on the year that’s just passed. Their primary focus as a charity is to provide emergency relief food parcels to those in dire circumstances, and last year they helped on average over 400 individuals each month, including families!
It is only with the support of the community that they can provide this service. Donations from individuals and local businesses, a core of more than 60 volunteers, successful grants from local government and large corporations such as The National Lottery, local media that support the cause and beyond – all have played an integral part and are deserving of great thanks. The community spirit felt within Bassetlaw Food Bank is immeasurable; everyone involved plays a role in aiding those that may need a helping hand from time to time.
Last year the Bank launched the Fruit and Veg Box Scheme, an initiative to provide those on Universal Credit or Pension Credit a selection of fresh, healthy food worth £15.00 for just £3.00 a box. The scheme is subsidised, and volunteer drivers mean that the charity can provide those in need continued access to high quality fruit and vegetables.
Last year also saw the start of the Lunch Club at The Crossing in Worksop. This is a weekly social eating club, held every Wednesday, that is open to those on Universal Credit, Pension Credit or who have been referred by one of the charity’s partners. Here they provide individuals with a two- or three-course meal at a low cost of £3.00, plus the chance to have an enjoyable time in a social environment.
You can regularly find them at the Retford market on Fridays and occasional car boot sales within Bassetlaw. The market stall gives the Food Bank a chance to raise money for the charity and interact with the community in Retford. Hopefully people can familiarise themselves with the work that the charity does – and even pick up a treat for themselves, which in turn positively impacts those in need.
It is important to the charity to have a positive impact on the Bassetlaw community, to bring people together and let them know that they have support in the hard times. Once again, they would like to thank everyone for the continued support. Keep an eye on their social media pages for updates on the work they do.