Council steps in to help Kidderminster Foodbank
News release issued:
Kidderminster Foodbank can open at new premises thanks to Wyre Forest District Council.
The Foodbank provides emergency food and support to local people but had to stop after it was asked to leave its current premises, Baxter United Reformed Church, at short notice. This was due to serious health and safety issues identified by the council and by church trustees relating to the riverside walkway that provides access to the rear of the building.
The Foodbank is expected to open at its new home, 9 Blackwell Street, Kidderminster, from Friday 17th September.
The council has given Kidderminster Foodbank a £15,000 grant to cover its rent for the next 12 months.
In the past year Kidderminster Foodbank has provided almost four and a half thousand supplies of three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food to people in crisis. This includes providing support to people who have had to self-isolate due to COVID-19.
Councillor Helen Dyke, Leader of Wyre Forest District Council said,
“Kidderminster Foodbank has been helping people in crisis since 2012 and makes a real difference in the community. We have worked closely with them, particularly during the pandemic and know how much the service is valued. This grant will enable Kidderminster Foodbank to reopen in the town centre and continue helping vulnerable people. “
Reverend Andrew Mann-Ray, is Chairman of the charity.
“Our thanks to Wyre Forest District Council for stepping in to support us at this critical time. Unfortunately, the demand for the Foodbank’s services continues to grow. As well as providing food we offer job search advice and help with writing CVs, signposting to other charities, businesses, social services and government departments who can help people in crisis. This would no longer be available from Kidderminster Foodbank without the council helping us at this time.”
Information about how to donate to the Foodbank is available here https://kidderminster.foodbank.org.uk/give-help/donate-food-2/
Anyone needing help from the Foodbank can find out more https://kidderminster.foodbank.org.uk/get-help/
There is also Wyre Forest Foodbank at Franche Community Church in the town. More information is available from https://www.franchecommunitychurch.co.uk/wyre-forest-food-bank/
During the pandemic both foodbanks have received grant funding from the council. Wyre Forest Foodbank (£15,000) and Kidderminster Foodbank (£3,300) for food and emergency supplies.