As the cost of living continues to rise, many individuals and families are struggling to make ends meet, and food banks have become a vital lifeline for those in need. In Mid Norfolk, the local food bank network is facing a significant challenge after seeing a 27% drop in donations in the first quarter of this year. This decrease in donations is equivalent to 425 food parcels, which is a substantial setback for the organization. Despite this, the team at Mid Norfolk Foodbank remains committed to providing emergency food parcels to those in need, and they are now appealing to the community for support.
The Mid Norfolk Foodbank network, which covers Dereham, Swaffham, Fakenham, and surrounding villages, has been providing essential support to individuals and families in crisis for many years. The food bank relies on donations from the public to operate, and the recent decline in donations has put a strain on their resources. Operations Manager Suzanne Bushby acknowledges that times are tough for many people, but she is grateful that the number of people using the food bank has slightly decreased. However, with the school holidays approaching, the team is bracing themselves for an increase in demand. Bushby emphasizes the importance of the community’s support, stating that the food bank is a “real community effort” that relies on the dedication of 75 volunteers who collect, sort, and pack donations, as well as local churches and community groups that have been supporting the organization since its inception in 2012.
The Mid Norfolk Foodbank is currently in need of specific items, including tinned meat, instant mash, coffee, long-life fruit juice, tinned vegetables, and tinned fruit. They also always appreciate donations of toilet rolls. While they have a sufficient supply of teabags, breakfast cereal, baked beans, pasta, and ladies’ sanitary ware, the team is urging supporters to consider donating other essential items. The food bank’s website provides information on where donations can be left, making it easy for individuals to contribute. By donating even a single item, individuals can make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling to access basic necessities. As Bushby notes, “One in seven people in the UK are facing hunger today. It just isn’t right that people are still having to turn to charity to put an essential such as food on the table.”
The Mid Norfolk Foodbank has a remarkable track record of supporting those in need, having fed 5,285 people, including 2,164 children, last year. The team’s dedication and commitment to their work are a testament to the power of community spirit and the impact that individuals can have when working together to address social issues. Bushby expresses her gratitude to the food bank’s “faithful and merry band of volunteers” who make it possible to run the organization. The team’s selflessness and hard work are an inspiration to others, and their efforts have not gone unnoticed. The photo of the volunteers gathering at Wellspring Family Church in Dereham for training and a well-deserved celebration is a heartwarming reminder of the human side of the food bank’s work.
For those who wish to support the Mid Norfolk Foodbank, there are several ways to get involved. Individuals can donate food items, volunteer their time, or spread the word about the organization’s work. The food bank’s website provides a wealth of information on how to get involved, including details on donation points, volunteering opportunities, and upcoming events. By working together, the community can help ensure that everyone has access to the basic necessities, including food. As the cost of living continues to rise, the importance of organizations like the Mid Norfolk Foodbank cannot be overstated. They provide a vital safety net for those in crisis, and their work is a reminder of the importance of compassion, empathy, and community spirit.
In conclusion, the Mid Norfolk Foodbank is a shining example of community spirit and dedication in action. Despite the challenges posed by the decline in donations, the team remains committed to providing essential support to those in need. By donating items, volunteering time, or spreading the word, individuals can make a real difference in the lives of others. As Suzanne Bushby so eloquently puts it, “It just isn’t right that people are still having to turn to charity to put an essential such as food on the table.” By working together, we can help create a more just and compassionate society where everyone has access to the basic necessities. For more information on the Mid Norfolk Foodbank, including how to donate or get involved, visit their website at midnorfolk.foodbank.org.uk or contact them at [email protected].
