In an effort to combat food poverty, two churches in St. Helens, St. Austin's and St. Teresa of Avila, have joined forces to establish a community foodbank, supported by the local St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) charity.
Working with parish priest Father Martin Kershaw, this initiative aims to address the growing need for food assistance in the area, and across the UK. Shockingly, recent surveys have shown that there are now more foodbanks in the UK than McDonald's restaurants.
The "Feed My Lambs, Feed My Sheep" initiative launched several months ago has garnered significant community support. Local parishioners from both churches have been contributing by donating food parcels and essential supplies.
Thanks to the collaboration with the SVP, the project has flourished. A team of enthusiastic young volunteers play a crucial role in managing the donations, helping to collect items and sorting through them to ensure that nothing goes to waste. Volunteers not only assist with donations but also deliver food parcels directly to families in need.
The project exemplifies the essential role that local churches and volunteers can play in addressing food insecurity and fostering a sense of community solidarity.
As the food arrives at the food bank, the dedicated volunteers spring into action, sorting through the large variety of canned goods and other items. They will check the expiry dates on each tin. Those products with a shorter shelf life will be prioritised for distribution to prevent any unnecessary waste, which is critical in maximising the impact of the donations.
This approach not only helps ensure that the food bank can provide fresh and safe options for those facing food insecurity, but it also reflects a commitment to sustainability by minimising waste. By efficiently organising the food donations in this way, the volunteers play an essential role in fostering a supportive community and alleviating hunger effectively.
As the "Feed My Lambs, Feed My Sheep" project continues to grow, the need for more volunteers and donations remains critical. Anyone interested in supporting the foodbank, whether through volunteering their time or contributing food items, is encouraged to get involved.
Additionally, those affiliated with other organisations looking to collaborate with the SVP are also welcome to join forces in this essential effort. Together, we can make a significant difference to families facing food insecurity in our community. For more information on how to help, please contact St. Austin's or St. Teresa of Avila churches directly, or your local SVP.
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