Forum Topic

Food banks needing funds?

Does anyone know where the nearest food banks are in Chiswick and how we could donate financially?

Sandra Taylor ● 2423d10 Comments

Sainsbury's have a food bank but dont think you can donate money there.

Loraine Pemberton ● 2423d

The local foodbank for Hounslow is https://www.hounslowfoodbox.org.uk/It is an independent registered charity and I'm a trustee. We cover all of Hounslow and work with referral partners such as the DWP, Jobcentre, Hounslow Housing, GPs etc. We have a good smattering of Chiswick clients.At present we are coping with demand but we're obviously concerned that it might increase dramatically especially if schools close - far too many children rely on free school lunches and in many cases breakfasts and even parents with a secure job may have to take time off to look after the children. At least one London Foodbank has closed (in Islington).There are food collection boxes at Morrisons in Brentford and the Co-Op on the A4. We'd like more of these but financial contributions are very welcome and attract Gift Aid - see website.

Guy Lambert ● 2423d

Have a look at City Harvest London, based in Acton. They do a fantastic job feeding thousands.

Kate Williams ● 2423d

Am on it Guy and Kate. Thank you

Sandra Taylor ● 2423d

Guy-If you think it will help with the kids meals, we would be happy to produce them if you can help us with sourcing ingredients and distribution. With trade down and more likely than not soon to be stopped, idle hands need something to do.Or perhaps the school staff are still able to produce  meals and all that is needed is a distribution network. Maybe a canopy located at each school so parents and kids can walk up and take away. It would be in the catchment so presumably near to those in need. And within the social network of same if folks are unable to retrieve themselves.

David Lesniak ● 2423d

Good morning all,Please also consider Ealing Food BankBased in Hanwell they have Cafes (where food is distributed) in Hanwell, Greenford, Northolt, Ealing Broadway, Southall and Acton (in the old firestation)For donations and information please visit their home page (https://ealing.foodbank.org.uk/), their Facebook page or follow on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ealingfoodbank/)They have a collection point in Chiswick Waitrose.The foodbank relies on a number of volunteers - collecting donated food from supermarkets and bringing it to the warehouse in Hanwell, sorting it in the warehouse, preparing deliveries of food to the Cafes, working in the Cafes giving out the food etc.Many of these volunteers are retired and may have to consider their availability during the pandemic.  Perhaps if some of our younger readers who are having to work from home can spare some time then please get in touch through the website above.Thank you.

Richard Gibson ● 2423d

Thanks for the thought, David.At present we prepare food (etc) parcels of uncooked goods for people to prepare at home and don't do any prepared food other than what comes in a packet. They mostly collect from our premises behind Pets at Home in Brentford (Brickfield Close, Brentford TW8 8JN) -where we also accept donations -see website for opening hours - but we deliver via volunteer drivers when needed.I am conferring with fellow trustees about your suggestion because in unusual times we need to be flexible about the offering.As a further comment, we have lost a few volunteers. Some are over 70 and following 'instructions' but we need more, especially those who will deliver (to doorsteps) - better still if you have a DBS check but we can arrange if not.

Guy Lambert ● 2423d

Guy-I've sent you an email via LBH.

David Lesniak ● 2422d

If you want to make a financial donation, City Harvest will be grateful:http://www.cityharvest.org.uk/

Paul Cronshaw ● 2422d

Hi Guy - happy to help - I emailed as you suggested and waiting for response.. I have an enhanced DBS check too. Can you remind me the website name please?

Ruth Mayorcas ● 2421d