Haslemere and District Foodbank

• 8th March 2021
• Ellie Weston
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Haslemere Food Bank was set up seven years ago following an enquiry from the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) indicating the need in the Haslemere area. A small group of volunteers came together to devise a way forward, including finding premises, training volunteers, and connecting with organisations in the area who would refer people in need of food support. The CAB, a local debt advice service, the local health centre, local schools and churches as well as various local and national government agencies all refer families in need.

It began slowly with two or three families each week but, since the Covid-19 crisis began, the Food Bank has been dealing with around 25 families each week. This has put a strain on the system, especially as some volunteers have had to step down because of their own issues with the virus.

Last year, The Davies Foundation donated £750 to Haslemere and District Foodbank to help source essential food supplies needed for the most vulnerable in the community.

A surge in donations from the local community as well as new financial support from charitable agencies, such as The Davies Foundation, are helping to maintain the level of food support required. The additional financial support has provided the opportunity to include some fresh foods and to inaugurate a delivery service for those who are unable to visit the site