“The Foodbank collection organised and staffed by St Andrew’s Church was well received at Budgens on Saturday (4 Oct) ” says Nicky Selby, ” People were so generous. We were collecting for 2 hours and my car was completely packed with products to take to the Foodbank. One lady dontated £18 worth of goods!”
Managed by the Mill End Community Trust, in partnership with Trussel Trust, the Foodbank opened in Nov 12 as a response to the growing need within the community, and has since provided food for 1,200 individuals.Rickmansworth foodbank is ‘fighting poverty at its point of need’ says Iris Bangs Chairman of Mill End Community Trust. It provides non- perishable food, a free local café and professional financial advice to anyone within the Three Rivers District.
“Since this is an affluent area, rent/mortgage/food rates are higher- so a lower income will not go as far.” says Iris , ” Many people struggle to come in and ask for food- they feel they’ve failed. This is an opportunity for people to sit and tell their story whilst being provided with food. Many people feel lighter because someone’s listened to them.’
There are currently 3 food distribution locations . Each individual is given food enough for 3 days, donated by local churches and community members.
The Mill Café opens from 10am- 4pm on Tuesdays in Mill End Methodist Church. The café offers low-cost lunches and will soon be holding a job club, with an overall aim to ‘increase self-esteem’ and opportunities for those in crisis.