Dozens make use of new food bank

Dozens make use of new food bank

29 April 2015

THE new Fountain food bank in Downpatrick launched earlier this month has already helped over 70 local people.

Volunteers from across the community have come forward to help families who have been plunged into poverty. The people running the bank were visited this week by Newry, Mourne and Down Council chairwoman Naomi Bailie.

The food bank was launched as many families in the area continue struggling to make ends meet due to the recession and challenging economic climate.

The food bank is a cross-community initiative which helps not just people in Downpatrick, but those in neighbouring areas including Ardglass, Ballyhornan, Killyleagh, Killough and Strangford.

It aims to alleviate what volunteers describe as “hidden hardship” by providing a much-needed food parcel for those who find themselves in challenging circumstances.

Almost one month after its launch, volunteers are pleased with the “amazing generosity” of local donors who have ensured the food bank’s shelves are full of suitable food.

The people who have already benefited from the scheme include children from a range of backgrounds and circumstances. Four trolley loads of food have been donated by Asda shoppers, and a car boot load of food was supplied by St Patrick’s Church in Downpatrick. Food bank volunteers say many other local churches and individuals have made regular and generous amounts of non-perishable food available.

The food bank’s volunteer co-ordinator, Shirley Lennon, said if someone feels they would benefit from a food parcel they should contact one of the bank’s partner organisations who will have a chat with them and issue a voucher.

“People can bring the voucher along to the food bank located at Downpatrick Presbyterian Church in Fountain Street on Tuesdays and Fridays between 10am and noon. Volunteers will welcome them and provide a cup of tea while their parcel is packed,” she explained.

Shirley said the food bank’s partner organisations include St Vincent de Paul in Ardglass and Downpatrick, the Co. Down Rural Community Network, Down District Home Start, Down SureStart, Down District Citizens’ Advice Bureau, Simon Community, Women’s Aid, Castle Living Choices, Bryson Care, Action for Children and Mulholland After Care Services.

“We want to reassure people that we are keen to help and that we aim to be confidential in the support we give. The council chairwoman’s visit and wider community support will help us get the message across that there is help available when people need it,” Shirley continued.

“The food bank provides hope and is a response to God’s love for his broken world. We hope people will feel able to use the food bank.”

The new initiative was set up with initial funding provided by the Public Health Agency via the Co. Down Rural Community Network and is supported by a range of cross-community groups and churches.

A voucher system is used to distribute food parcels to ensure those who need them most receive them, with volunteers explaining this reassures donors that their donations are being used wisely.

The food bank is open on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10am until noon and further information about the food bank is available at fountainfoodbank@gmail.com.