Vale Foodbank adds locations to meet demand

When Vale Foodbank first opened its doors in 2011, it faced a growing population of people who were having difficulty feeding their families. Since then increased demand has led to the opening of two new centres in Vale of Glamorgan.

The service is praised for serving families who are working hard to pay rent and put food on the table. Not everyone in government is convinced of the need or its success though. One critic has been slammed by fellow MPs for suggesting that it was a giveaway for drug addicts and those who failed to budget their money.

The reality is that Vale Foodbank only provides food aid to those who are currently receiving advice through social welfare agencies and community organisations. A voucher system ensures that someone first receives help with living skills, budgeting and job training assistance before they are eligible for a gift.

Vouchers are redeemed at one of three locations for a parcel of food. Each parcel is designed to feed an average family for three days. That can be a tremendous blessing for a family who has gone broke three days prior to pay day or a benefit payment.

Once a local resident has received a referral for food aid, they may redeem their voucher for a parcel at these locations:

• Coastlands Family Church hosts the primary distribution centre. The church is located on Tennyson Road in Barry where it has been based since 2004. The church is committed to providing support to the food bank to serve the poor individuals and families that live in Barry. Anyone with a voucher can receive aid, and there is no pressure to participate in church activities.
• Bethesda Chapel opened a distribution centre in 2012 in Dinas Powys. Bethesda Chapel is excited to celebrate 90 years of service to the Dinas Powys community. They have been located in the current building since 1964.
• Bethel Baptist Church became a partner in 2013. It is located in Llantwit Major and serves the people of Llantwit, St Athan and Rhoose. In addition to the free foodbank, Bethel Baptist Church offers a discounted Food Co Op as a way of adding fresh vegetables and fruit to families. It provides a nice supplement to the nonperishable food items contained in the distribution parcels.

Already an increasing quantity of food parcels have been distributed through the three branches of Vale Foodbank. It has become a necessary fixture in the local community.

Donations come from many community partners, including supermarkets, bakeries, businesses and private citizens. Most of the work is completed by volunteers who work tirelessly to serve the poor of Vale of Glamorgan.

Trussell Trust is a national partner. With their backing, Vale Foodbank receives the support and guidance necessary to mirror the successes already seen in other parts of the UK. The local partnership continues to grow to meet demand, and there is little signs that the growth will slow anytime soon.

What we are essentially noticing is that many households are starting to catch on to the appeal of the Vale Foodbank. Perhaps it is the stigma of such services that kept needy families away in the past. However they are now finding that the service is becoming more mainstream.

Economic recessions previously drove needy households to seek aid. Now stagnant wages across the Vale as well as increasing rent and utility costs are eating into the household budget. Very little if any is left over for what is essentially a basic human need.

How to get help

Residents of Vale of Glamorgan may contact their local JobCentre Plus or benefits office to meet with a case manager. In addition to receiving helpful advice, a voucher can be issued which is redeemable for a food parcel. Pick up is allowed at any of the three locations, though hours may vary according to the day of the week.

Enquiries may be directed to Coastlands Family Church by calling 07879 562077. Information about updated hours as well as referral sources can be provided.