Powys food banks take different approaches

The primary food banks in Powys combine to serve hundreds of hungry Welsh citizens each week. Their approaches to meeting demand vary, making for an interesting comparison.

One of the greatest challenges faced by do-gooders in Powys is fulfilling the needs of such a rural county. The hope is that by placing centres at several of the villages, that a high percentage of the population in need will be able to access the aid.

Trussell Trust foodbank network

The branches of the national Trussell Trust foodbank network rely on a tried and true voucher system. This system ensures that only those residents who are receiving advice or other government services are eligible to pick up food parcels at one of the distribution centres. Trussell Trust currently supports three locations in Powys.

• Welshpool & District Foodbank opens its doors on some weekday afternoons. While times may change based on demand and volunteer strength, this distribution centre is committed to stamping out hunger in the Welshpool community. Food parcels may be picked up from Kingswood Church on Church Road. Phone enquiries may be directed to 07927 284 700.
• Llandrindod Foodbank is based at the New Life Church in Llandrindod Wells. The church has been led by Tim & Angela Price for a decade, who helped bring the church into the Trussell Trust partnership. Food distribution occurs on certain weekdays. Residents should call 01597 822592 to confirm dates and times.
• Brecon Foodbank serves residents through two distribution centres. Lower income residents who are receiving assistance through government or charity services may be referred to either location with a voucher. Enquiries may be directed to 01597 822592.
  • Bishop Bevan Hall at St Mary’s Church Brecon is open one day a week. The church’s 900 year history supports taking care of people in the community who are experiencing hardship.
  • Llanfaes Hall at St David’s Church is also open one weekday. This Anglican Church is located on the outskirts of Brecon.

Any of these three distribution centres may be accessed by Welsh citizens who have been referred by another aid agency. Case managers will provide a voucher which can be redeemed for food parcels.

Knighton Food Bank

The Knighton Food Bank initially relied on a voucher system similar to that used by the Trussell Trust partners. Staff who interacted with residents felt that a change was needed as a result of the difficult circumstances that they faced.

Specifically the voucher system was deemed to be not as responsive as some volunteers had hoped. In May 2013 a new telephone referral system was developed to ensure that aid was given to needy families without delay.

The Knighton Food Bank hotline was established for residents to be able to complete their assessment over the phone. By calling 07731 524058 Knighton residents and those living in surrounding communities may speak with the food bank manager. The application can be completed via telephone.

The referral can then be phoned into the Knighton Food Bank. The person’s name is added to the list and they can pick up their food parcel as soon as it is open. Parcels may be picked up at St Edwards Church on Norton Street in Knighton.

The Knighton Food Bank is typically open twice a week, but some partner organisations have been able to obtain food in reserve for a direct hand out. This helps aid workers at other charities distribute food directly to clients so that they don’t have to travel. This method helps when the need occurs at off hours, or on the weekend.

All of the volunteers work to eliminate hunger in Powys. These food banks serve the local communities, and the supplies are donated by local citizens and businesses.