FAIR Frome is preparing for a busy few weeks ahead in the run up to Christmas and is appealing for donations for its food bank.
“This year has been incredibly difficult for so many people and here at Fair Frome our food bank has been at the centre of our community’s response,” says Fair Frome’s Bob Ashford. “Our food bank, furniture bank and other programmes like our Food at Five rely on donations from the people of Frome. It’s these donations that have helped us stay open and running during this difficult time.
“However, in recent months we have been busier than ever, and we have seen the number of people coming to the food bank increase by 30%. We expect this to continue to rise throughout the winter months.”
One of the food bank’s coordinators, Rosie, adds, “People have had a really difficult year and are continuing to struggle. We see many people come to the food bank who are struggling with the cuts to universal credit, increase in cost of living and rising fuel prices. All these issues will not disappear at Christmas.
“This year our various Christmas programmes help us support people who will be finding the Christmas period incredibly challenging.”
With the number of people needing access to the charity’s food bank expected to rise during the Christmas period, Fair Frome has said that any donations will be much appreciated.
Bob continues, “This year as well as running the food bank, we are also providing bags of extra food and festive treats for families through our school referral scheme. Fair Frome are also helping with donations for The Frome Big Christmas Get Together.
“We are looking for general donations for our extra Christmas food parcels, alongside any Christmas food such as mince pies, individual Christmas puddings and cakes, chocolate, savoury treats, festive crisps, and Christmas goodies.
“All donations can be placed in our usual supermarket and local shop collection points or dropped off to us at Fair Frome.
“Or you can donate to our Christmas fund by texting FROMECHRISTMAS followed by your donation amount to 70460.”
Picture: Fair Frome volunteers busy at work in the food bank
