It’s not just the poor who need the food bank

It’s not just the poor who need the food bank

20 March 2013

A SURPRISING mix of people arrive at the Food Bank in Ballynahinch. There are those you might expect — the ones struggling on benefits, immigrants just into the country — but there are also some well-heeled individuals down on their luck.

Since the recession kicked in, sudden job losses have left some families on the breadline, and that is where First Presbyterian Church has stepped in.

Magali Robinson, church administrator, is one of those behind the twice weekly service manned by volunteers, which has proved a life-line for many in crisis. Set up by her husband Stephen in November 2010, more recently it has involved all the Ballynahinch churches.

“We provide three days of food for families and that includes breakfast, lunch and supper, all non perishable items,” Magali explained. “It was great when the other churches came on board; we never had to worry where the food was going to come from.

“Typically half a dozen families come once a week. Before Christmas there were many more.”

With those availing of the service coming from “all walks of life”, Magali said: “There are those who have been on benefits who were doing quite well, but now they are not quite managing. There are those who have lost their jobs suddenly; those who have had a sudden crisis.

“One lady who came to us was a carer for her partner, her partner left and the money that came to her was cut. Then you have a few immigrants, coming in new to the system.

“There are a lot of different classes, middle class as well as working class.”

To protect the food bank from abuse a voucher system is in place.

“We work with various organisations such as Social Services, Home Start, Citizens Advice, GPs and the principals of schools,” said Magali added: “They issue people with a voucher. We do not give food to people off the street. The idea is not to offer long term support.

“Some may be really new to benefits, for example, and don’t realise how long you have to wait for the money to come through.”

And with turning to the food bank often linked to a crisis in some form, it can be a stressful time for those admitting they need help.

Magali observed that some just pick up their parcel and go, while others take the opportunity of a good listening ear from the volunteers.

“You find the women talk more,” she said. “Some people feel they have to justify why they are there. It is easy to look at their car and think ‘why do you they need help?’ but whenever you hear their stories it is very sad.”

Donations to the food bank come from congregation members, who put extra items into their shopping trolleys on a weekly basis. Local schools have also contributed and the food bank has worked alongside charitable organisations such as the Lions Club.

“The church people are so good,” said Magali. “There is a food bank in Lisburn, but none in Downpatrick or Newcastle. We are the only one we know of in Down District.”

For more information on the Food Bank service contact First Presbyterian Church, Ballynahinch on 028 9756 4404.