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There are a few faith based groups that partner together as part of the Churches Together organisation. The volunteers from them, as well as other charities that are local to Shropshire County, provide support in many ways. Most of what is provided is basic needs though, which will be parcels of free groceries from the Shrewsbury Food Bank as well as meals from the Lion Hotel. However other aid, including shelter, linkage to welfare schemes and debt advice, can also be provided.

One of the key partners of Churches Together is Barnabas Money Advice. This is a not-for-profit organisation that is involved in helping the low income get back on track. There are workshops held at the Barnabas Centre in Longden Coleham.

Not only can clients get advice on how to pay off loans and budget properly, but the specialists also direct the client to other forms of financial help. Of course the first aim is to reduce debts, but at the same time specialists can link a family to council schemes for paying rent deposits or energy bill payment plans.

Shrewsbury Street Pastors also drop in from time to time to pass out clothing, vouchers, and give counseling at the workshops. This team is made up of over 20 volunteers from ten churches, and these Street Pastors provide information to the vulnerable. The Money Advice sessions in Shropshire County are held on Monday’s at 7pm, while the Pastors may drop in too.

One of the partners of the organisation is the Barnabas Community Church, and they operate the Shropshire Food Bank. This location is part of the Trussell Trust Network. It is aimed at helping families on a low income that are in a financial hardship.

The food bank is open to many people from the Shropshire County community. Clients include those that have lost their job, people in ill health, or households facing delays in benefits including Universal Credit or job-seekers allowance. The Shrewsbury Food Bank is what is used to assist those in a genuine crisis.

When an individual has a voucher to Churches Together, the food bank will give them support. Most of the help for the low income is a free box of emergency food. It will generally have enough items to last up to 3 days. This type of aid can help an individual make it through the current economic climate, which is challenging.

Churches Together relies on volunteers and donations to keep the foodbank running. They also use the Trussell Trust to help organise the food programmes and keep the help going to the most deserving. More donations are always needed, and to apply ring 01743 343336. Or find additional food banks in the UK.

Another place for hot meals is the Cafe Church. This service takes place at the Lion Hotel on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.30pm. Not only can a meal and coffee be served, but Churches Together organizes friendly chats with the client.

Most of the communication is around spiritual needs (especially for the vulnerable) but more practical support may be given by the Cafe Church as they refer the low income to many schemes. As an example Churches Together also is aware of the Shropshire welfare scheme which can help with fuel bills and similar expenses.

Last is the Café Connect soup kitchen. This Churches Together service has a cost to it though. Anyone that is in need of a meal, coffee, or light snack can sit down and buy the food at a low price. All of the money raised from the Cafe is used to pay for financial assistance to the low income or the funds are given to charity.

While over 10 churches are part of the organisation, the main location is at Number Seven, West Castle Street, Bridgnorth, WV16 4AB. Churches Together can also be called at 01746 768129.