Bradford food bank needs volunteers (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Bradford food bank needs volunteers

10:01am Wednesday 23rd December 2009 in

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A charity that feeds people in need in the district is full to bursting.

The cupboards and shelves at Bradford Food Bank are stocked up in time for Christmas and the New Year aftermath – thanks to the generosity of well-wishers.

Food Bank volunteer Helen Bradshaw says the project now needs more helpers to get the food parcels out.

She said: “We’re usually in the Telegraph & Argus asking for donations of food but we’ve had such a fabulous response from businesses, schools, organisations and individuals that we have been overwhelmed. We are thrilled.”

Help is needed to go to the base at St Mary’s Church and sort out donations into tins, meat, vegetables, rice and pasta.

The charity started three years ago as a way of supplying food to families and individuals who are homeless or living in sub-standard accommodation and struggling financially.

Instead of providing food on a drop-in basis, the food bank distributes donations, via community leaders and designated workers.

Six months after its launch, the scheme nearly folded due to lack of food supplies and there have been other times when supplies have dried up but for now the charity is thriving.

Mrs Bradshaw, who is also the charity’s secretary, said: “We’re handing out about 60 food parcels every two weeks but we need extra helping hands to get the job done.

‘‘Anyone who can drive would also be handy although we encourage people from organisations to come and pick them up when they can.

“Christmas is always a busy time but so is the aftermath when people are struggling even more.’’ Anyone who can spare a couple of hours – particularly during the daytime in the week – should call her on 07939 088403.