Carshalton and Wallington MP Tom Brake joined local volunteers at a session of the Sutton food bank in operation, at the Salvation Army branch in Benhill Avenue, Sutton.
During the visit, Tom Brake had a chance to meet local residents who dedicate their time to helping those in need and find out more about the work they do.
Tom said: “It was a humbling experience. Clearly, the Food bank is used by people from many different backgrounds, some of whom are out of work and some in work. In the current economic climate, households face increasing pressures on their incomes.Food banks play an important role in our community, providing a safety net for those in crisis. They stop people from going hungry.”
“Sutton has a fantastic team of volunteers. I am proud to be part of a Borough where local residents dedicate their time, and work hard to help the vulnerable members of our community.”
Sutton food bank provides free emergency supply of food to people in need across the Borough. Food is donated by local residents, charities, schools and churches. Those referred to the food bank by social services and other organisations (including Tom Brake’s office) can get provision of food-essentials for three days.
Individuals are met by volunteers who provide refreshments. They then put together a food parcel for the individual or family, taking into account any special needs. Food parcels contain nutritious, non-perishable, goods and a meal planner to help people make healthy meals. Those receiving food are also given information about where they can obtain extra support.
Sutton food bank depends on volunteer work and donations. Although food donations are absolutely essential for their operation, they are also in need of secure and dry storage. They are currently looking for anyone who could provide secure storage facility where food donations could be kept.
Tom said – “I would urge anyone who is able to provide good size storage capacity to help Sutton food bank. They need the room to store their food supplies and be able to deliver continuous service to those within our community who badly need it.”
The Sutton food bank distributes food at two locations in Sutton:
Sutton Salvation Army on Mondays and Fridays between 12pm and 2pm
Apple Lodge on Wednesdays between 6.30pm and 8pm.
If you could provide storage or would like to find out more, please go to http://www.suttonfoodbank.org.uk/ or email info@suttonfoodbank.org.uk.