Over the next few weeks and months I want to shine the spotlight on our amazing projects – to share the wonderful heart of the teams that deliver.
Centre stage today is the incredible work of St Helens Foodbank
In a world where headlines often paint a bleak picture, it’s easy to forget the quiet heroism happening in our own communities. The St Helens Foodbank team – led by Sally, supported by Jack and a wonderful group of volunteers who are a beacon of hope for those facing hardship.
St Helens, like many towns, has seen its share of challenges. The rising cost of living, unexpected job losses, and health crises can create a perfect storm, leaving individuals and families making the choice of putting food on the table, or paying the bills. This is where St Helens Foodbank steps in, providing emergency food parcels and practical support to those in need.
But it’s not just about handing out food. It’s about offering a lifeline, a moment of respite in a sea of uncertainty. The volunteers at St Helens Foodbank understand this implicitly. They greet each person with compassion and respect, offering not just sustenance, but also a listening ear and a sense of community.
Behind the Scenes: A Symphony of Effort
The smooth operation of the foodbank is a testament to the dedication of its volunteers. From sorting and packing food donations to managing stock levels and distributing parcels, every task is carried out with meticulous care. It’s a well-oiled machine, powered by the hearts of those who believe in making a difference.
- The Logistics Heroes: Imagine the sheer scale of managing donations from supermarkets, local businesses, and individuals. Volunteers sort and date items, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
- The Compassionate Distributors: The face of the foodbank, these volunteers interact directly with those in need, offering a warm welcome and a helping hand. They are the embodiment of empathy and understanding.
- The Resourceful Organisers: Behind the scenes, dedicated individuals work tirelessly to manage appointments, coordinate deliveries, and ensure that the foodbank runs efficiently.
Beyond the Food Parcel: Offering Holistic Support St Helens Foodbank recognizes that food poverty is often a symptom of deeper issues. They work closely with other local agencies to provide holistic support, including:
- Signposting to debt advice and benefits support.
- Offering guidance on budgeting and cooking on a budget.
- Creating a safe space where people can feel heard and supported.
A Community Effort: We Can All Play a Part The success of St Helens Foodbank relies not only on the generosity of our volunteers but the community too. Know that very tin, every jar, every packet, and every financial donation given makes a tangible difference.
Can you:
- Donate Food?: Please check the foodbank’s website for a list of urgently needed items.
- Volunteer Your Time?: Whether you have a few hours a week or a full day to spare, your help will be invaluable.
- Spread Awareness?: Share information about the foodbank’s work with your friends, family, and colleagues
- Support us financially?: Monetary donations allow the foodbank to purchase essential items and cover operational costs. You can donate here.
The St Helens Foodbank team are true heroes, quietly working to alleviate hunger and restore dignity to those in need, but without your support we simply couldn’t do what we do. Your kindness is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is hope, compassion and a community that cares. Thank you for standing with us and making a real difference.
Angela Metcalfe, Project Director
