Foodbank urges more people in need to come forward after seeing increase in families needing help

A group of volunteers from the Upton based organisation Friends of the Community, who run their own scheme to feed the community, have expressed concern about the increase of vulnerable people in need.

The scheme, led by councillor Pauline Kitching, has fed over 30 families, including children, over the last two weeks from their base in Upton Village Hall.

Coun Kitching has assured the community that they will feed anyone in need despite their circumstances.

Pauline said: “We’ve seen a big increase of people coming to the village hall to be fed.

“People who wouldn't have ever imagined themselves in a food bank have been coming to pick up a food parcel.

“We will never turn anyone away, anybody that visits a foodbank is in a desperate situation - regardless of their circumstances.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a low paid worker or just vulnerable, or if you’re a family with children - please get in touch.”

Six volunteers help to run the Village Hall foodbank and they have since received support from many local groups including My Eco Baby, The Embrace project, Upton Rugby Club and Moortop Farm Shop.

Food parcels are prepared beforehand and appointments can be made to pick up a parcel, consisting of fresh food, pantry goods and canned food, between noon and 2pm every Friday.

The system is one way and has been designed to ensure appointments are discreet.

Pauline said: “It must be a devastating feeling, for all those in crisis.

“So many are battling with depression, self worth, worry and anxiety about so many things during the pandemic.

“The volunteers and I will be here to lend a helping hand to those who need it.

“The foodbank has been good for me and the volunteers, I’m so proud of them and they’re such a good bunch.”

To refer yourself or a friend to the Upton Village Hall foodbank, call Pauline on 07747087658