Highbridge Area Foodbank

HAFB logoSt John’s Church is one of the founder members of the Highbridge Area food bank, set up during the early months of 2012. The food bank subscribes to the Trussell Trust, and is constituted and functions according to their principles.

Food banks have become increasingly necessary across the country over the past few years, and whilst we would much rather there was no need for the work of the bank, we are glad that as a Christian community we can serve people locally who need food but have difficulty buying it for themselves.

As the name suggests, The Highbridge Area food bank serves people who live in the Highbridge area. We have a warehouse based in Burnham on Sea, and this is stocked with food donated by many people from across the area, from Berrow and Lympsham through to Huntspill and beyond.

People can only receive food parcels from the bank if they have received a formal coupon from one of the referring agencies. These include schools, the health centre and citizens advice. This is to ensure that the food is given to those people who are in greatest need.

Demand continues to grow. Between April and July this year, for example, we gave food to over 300 people. This is a rise of 40% compared with the same period last year. Over the two years since we began we have supported thousands of people: families, as well as individuals, and it is good to know that, as a congregation, St John’s is able to serve those in need in our own neighbourhood.

The food bank only functions through the commitment and determination of a band of willing volunteers. If you would like to join this group (who sort food, prepare parcels and generally meet and greet those who come for food), then please do get in touch: info@highbridgearea.foodbank.org.uk