What exactly does the charity do?
People give us food which our volunteers sort into parcels. Then every Wednesday from 12 'til 2pm we open our doors at Ivy Lane Youth Centre and hand out the parcels to individuals and families who need them most.
Anna Brownlow, volunteer at Dartmouth Food Bank
Can anyone come to you?
We certainly will not turn people away if they arrive on our doorstep but generally people are referred to us from one of the organisations we work alongside; the doctors surgery, Citizens Advice, Children's Centre or Dartmouth Caring.
Are you expecting larger numbers at Christmas?
Yes, the numbers do increase at this time of year. Not just at Christmas but the whole of the winter. We get about 20 people a week at the moment and we see half that number in the summer. It's partly because Dartmouth has a lot of seasonal jobs so people struggle in the winter months.
Do you put festive treats in the parcels?
We do enjoy adding mince pies and Christmas puddings! But we can only put in what people donate and always prioritise the important staple items like pasta, rice, beans and cereal.
How many volunteers are there?
About seven. We definitely need more though. We also have a member of Citizens Advice who comes each week to offer help and advice.
How long have you worked for the charity?
Three years now.
What made you join?
I think it's such an important cause. Food is the most basic necessity, if you haven't got food, you can't start tackling any other problems. People do seem very appreciative – their decision to come to us isn't taken lightly – it takes a bit of courage to admit you're struggling to eat. It's great to be able to chat and signpost other services that can help them move forward as we don't want it to be a regular weekly thing for people.
Tell us about your Fuel Poverty Campaign?
There are more people than you realise living in damp and cold conditions, struggling to find enough money to top up their fuel cards. This campaign allows us to collect money from the public to help keep them warm. These aren't cash handouts, we actually top up the cards so we know the money's going exactly where it's needed. Last year we gave out three and a half thousand pounds. If you want to donate, pop into the Yorkshire Building Society.
How would you like to see the Food Bank develop in the future?
We used to have a cooking club, giving people practical help – I would love to see that return. At the moment we offer cups of tea and a chance to talk but I would like to extend our sessions, perhaps doing some at lunch so people can stay longer and chat to each other over a bowl of soup.
Food donations are welcomed at the Town Council offices, St Saviour's Church and the Yorkshire Building Society.
If you would like to volunteer at the Food Bank email dartmouthfoodbank@yahoo.co.uk
First published By the Dart December 2015 Issue