Food bank grateful for support of community

SIR, — On behalf of the Fountain Food Bank, I would like to thank the people of Downpatrick and the surrounding area for their generous support during our recent street collection in the town.

The collection took place on Friday, June 3 and thanks to the generosity of local people £787.40 was donated, with the money used to support the food bank and make purchases of food items for distribution to families and individuals who find themselves in difficult circumstances. There were expenses of £33.71. 

Thanks also to the PSNI for permission to hold the collection, the volunteers who took part and to Kelly’s Hardware staff for their practical help. 

Since opening in March 2015, the support in donations of food and money has been very generous and we are very grateful for this continued support. We recently distributed our 1,400th food parcel and have helped over 4,000 people, some on several occasions. 

The food parcels are gratefully received and make such a difference to the people receiving them, whether 

they are ill, homeless, having difficulties with benefits or other issues.  

Fountain Food Bank is a cross community charity that operates from premises in Fountain Street at Downpatrick Presbyterian Church and is open on Tuesdays and Fridays between 10am and noon.

Yours etc,

SHIRLEY LENNON,

Fountain Food Bank,

Volunteer Coordinator.