Poundbury may appear to be an affluent area, but Stuart Dawson from Dorchester Food Bank reports that the organisation is providing help to more families here who are struggling with bills and need food support.
He told Love Poundbury: “As a result of the cost of living crisis we are seeing an increased demand for our service and we are grateful for the continued support and donations received from the local community.”
Whilst physical donations of ambient food, toiletries and household cleaning goods are welcome, regular financial support is more efficient, as it allows the Food Bank to purchase what it needs to support families from week to week.
Stuart adds: “Donations appear to be down when compared with the same time last year, and this is probably again due to the cost of living crisis. These factors have contributed to us having reduced stock levels and we are currently having to restock our “popular “ items (such as baked beans, soup, tinned meat, fish, etc) at least weekly in order to keep up with increased demand.
Dorchester Food Bank is seeking to become a charity, which will enable donations to attract gift aid from the government of an additional 25p in every pound.
If you are struggling to pay bills and provide for yourself and your family, Dorchester Food Bank can help. They operate from Dorchester Baptist Church on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10.30-12.30 and collect from and support Dorchester and the surrounding villages.
If your need is very urgent, or if you can donate practically or financially, please contact 07554 983978 or email foodbank@dorchesterbc.org.uk.
Online one-off or regular donations can be made with the following bank details:
Dorchester Foodbank, Sort Code: 20-26-62, Account number: 63655253.
