In November 2020, Poole Food Bank+ expanded its storage facilities for food donations due to the rise in demand. The Dolphin Centre generously welcomed Poole Food Bank+ with the lease of a storage unit which previously housed Argos. Sadly, the lease is now coming to an end and the Food Bank are desperately in need of a new site. Poole Food Bank+, currently store 90% of the food it distributes within the site on Kingsland Crescent.
Jimmy’s (Poole Food Bank’s main site) maintains close partnership links with local organisations to ensure those visiting the Food Bank are able to access other support such as housing advice from Shelter, clothing packs for women from the Wardrobe Foundation, as well as links with other Faithworks’ projects such as debt advice and managing utility bills, homelessness, lone parent support and recovery.
For many people, Jimmy’s has become far more than just a place to get food and essential toiletries. It is also a place where people can sit down, have a cuppa and talk to someone about other things that concern them. Having sufficient warehouse space for food donations is vital to this work.
Gill Payne, manager, said: “We continue to adapt, collaborating with local organisations so that together we can provide effective solutions for people currently facing food and financial hardship.”
With the current financial climate, the numbers of people and families seeking help may well increase. Ideal facilities would be:
- In Poole, preferably in the south part of the town.
- A minimum of 100m² and not more than 300m² with level access and parking.
- Ideally available for at least 2 years, ideally longer.
- Access to a toilet and preferably somewhere to wash up and boil a kettle
- Affordable.
If anyone can provide a lead on a suitable facility, please contact the team on 01202 672694.
Poole Food Bank+ is supported by local charity Faithworks, We will walk alongside people through any problem that they’re having, and for as long as it takes for them to say ‘I can do this now’.