We will feed the hungry (From Ledbury Reporter)

We will feed the hungry

8:05am Friday 12th October 2012 in News

THE town’s hungry need not go short as Ledbury’s first food bank is launched.

It aims to help those who face the harsh dilemma of choosing between heating their home or eating as winter approaches.

Local churches are behind the scheme after discovering there is a real need in the town.

Project spokesman David Kirkham said: “Everyone has a right to have food on their table and hope for the future.

“A sudden crisis, caused by serious illness, family breakdown, unexpected bills or a failure in the benefits system can affect almost anyone.

“The aim of the Ledbury Food Bank is to provide support to those who, for whatever reason, experience short-term hunger.

A collection point for gifts of food will be in St Michael and All Angels Church from Sunday when the harvest festival service takes place at 11am.

Administration of the service, by volunteers, will take place twice a week, in St Katherine’s Hall, on days still to be announced.

An article in the October Team Talk parish magazine explains the need for a food bank service in Ledbury. It says: “Social services, Ledbury Primary School, our health visitors and other agencies assure us there is a real need in our town.

“As the colder weather approaches, many face the harsh ‘heat or eat’ decision.”

A food collection point will be the town council offices in Church Lane once the scheme goes operational in early November.

Other food distribution points will include the Ledbury Information Point in the Master’s House and local churches. There will also be some deliveries by volunteer car drivers.