As the Eat Out to Help Out scheme happens across the
country next week, spare a thought for local foodbanks in TUNBRIDGE WELLS.
People have experienced varying levels of hardship and
distress, both emotionally and financially, since the Covid-19 outbreak began.
Someone summed it up wonderfully when they said: “We are all
in the same storm, but some of us are in different boats.”
Every aspect of our lives has been touched in some way by
the lockdown and foodbanks are reporting a shortage in donations as people’s
minds are understandably elsewhere.
August is traditionally a slow month for donations to
foodbanks, which tend to receive a flurry of items in the run-up to Christmas.
Covid-19 has exacerbated this seasonal issue because a lot
more people have sadly fallen on tough times, increasing demand at a time when
donations decline.
But the good news, is that we can all do something to help.
How you can help
Some of the essential, everyday goods that are most popular
with foodbanks are:
Tinned soup.
Tinned fruit.
Tinned vegetables.
Pasta, rice, and sauces.
Cereals.
Long-life products.
Tea, coffee, cordial, and biscuits.
Even the smallest donations add up when people pull together
to help their neighbours and their community.
Many foodbank websites have regularly updated sections
asking for specific items if they are running low. So, it’s worth visiting
their sites and seeing what is most needed.
Certain products should ideally be avoided, including dairy,
dented tins, perishable items like fresh fruit, and homemade cooking or baking.
And it’s not just donations of food that are welcomed. Many
foodbanks need financial support to keep their operation running. So, another
way of helping could be to make a monetary donation.
At Martin & Co Tunbridge Wells, we feel fortunate
that we can support our local foodbanks in any way we can, including publicising
the excellent work they do and saluting their amazing volunteers who make it
all happen.
Thanks for reading.
Dave R MARLA MNAEA
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