Rochdale food donations feed local families

The demand for local food donations is at a recent high as a result of the continuing economic squeeze affecting Rochdale families. While there are many needs that often exceed household income, donations of food are being distributed to provide relief for this one large expense.

Officials at Rochdale Borough Council admit that they cannot fill all the needs of their constituents. They must rely on the generosity of donors and volunteers that provide food aid to the region’s needy households.

There are currently three primary options for those who are hungry that need help feeding themselves and family members.

• The Heywood St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Society Food Bank expanded so much that it expanded in 2013. The operation moved from St Joseph’s Church to its current location on 6 Bethel Street in Heywood. It is now beside of Kavanagh and Coates Funeral Services which has also been a supporter. Aid is not limited to just food, as some donations of clothing and furniture have also been given to help poor families who need just about everything to make their home a home. Families in need may call 01706 361 994 to confirm current hours of operation.
• Rochdale Foodbank is the local affiliate of the Trussell Trust national network. Located on 8 South Parade, the site is generally available at lunchtimes on weekdays. A referral can be made by a number of social care agencies, which may issue a voucher that is valid for a food parcel. Each parcel contains enough nonperishable food items to meet the needs of an average household for three days. Clients may call 01706 713701 to arrange for a pickup of a food parcel.
• Middleton Central Foodbank is another Trussell Trust affiliate. Food parcels may be picked up at the distribution centre at the Lighthouse Project, which is located on Oldham Road at Warwick Mill. A referral voucher will be redeemed for food parcels to eligible households. Enquiries may be directed to 0161 643 1163.

Volunteers urge local families to make use of the donated food items to ease the financial demands on the household. Some parents may be too proud to accept charity, yet they often make unnecessary sacrifices that negatively affect the household. A hungry parent that does without while feeding their kids can only continue this unhealthy lifestyle for a short time. After that, health problems could cause missed work and other undesirable effects.