New Food Share Scheme

By Joanne Yeo

There is a new "Food Share" scheme which will be operating from the Antioch Centre in Copperworks Road, Llanelli.  This is more than a food bank, it's an innovative approach looking at how families can be supported in wellbeing and socially.

The scheme will offer the following:

• A food bank operating from the Antioch Centre

• A clothes bank operating from the centre

• A furniture bank operating from the centre

• A community cafe which will help to sustain the scheme

• The scheme will offer a friendly ear, a cup of tea and a smile

• The scheme will help signpost families/individuals to other services which could include debt and benefit advice, counselling etc

Unfortunately, we are living in a time when all of the above are needed. I'm sure we can all say we've had a conversation with someone who is finding it financially difficult at present. This could be through any change of circumstances.

How will it work?

This scheme will use a "voucher" system. Members of the community or service providers who know of a family/person struggling can obtain a voucher through the scheme whereby any of the above can be accessed.

A fantastic scheme, but how will it be funded and sustained?

The scheme will not only rely upon donations, but will also actively fundraise to ensure the longevity of the scheme.

How can you help?

The Antioch Centre are kindly asking if you would be willing, through groups, organisations, friends and family, to consider donating non-perishable food items with a six month shelf life for the food bank. Items could include; rice, pasta, sauces, tins (beans/soup/fruit/rice pudding/tuna etc), cereals, tea bags, coffee,or  sugar........ we do not expect anyone to donate a full shopping list, if everyone donated just one item, it would make a huge difference.

The scheme is also accepting clothing and household items (furniture, bedding etc) in good condition which they will also offer to struggling families.

Fundraising Help

The Antioch have been running successful car boot sales to raise funds for this scheme and there's no reason why you should miss out. You could earn some extra funds for yourself whilst raising funds for the scheme.

Why not organise a fundraising event yourselves? If you run a local community group and are organising a fundraising event, would you consider giving a donation towards this scheme? How about the popular curry fundraising nights, bake sale, pub quiz, jelly welly races, the list could go on and on.

They do appreciate that this is a busy time of year and there are great many groups struggling to source funding for themselves so understand that you may be unable to help right now. Sometimes, it's not material things that are needed, maybe all that's needed is for someone to share a coffee with you and say "you're not alone".

Here's hoping you can help in some small way.

For more details contact:

Antioch Centre, Copperworks Road, Llanelli, SA15 2NE, Tel: 01554 741674 

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