LOCAL charity, Fair Frome, which runs the local food Bank, furniture bank, assistance scheme, holiday hunger, food at five and other projects has responded to the cost-of-living crisis by looking at how to extend the range of services they provide.
Chair of trustees Bob Ashford said, “We have already seen the impact of the huge rises in fuel bills on our foodbank and other services. Numbers continue to rise and until the recent Harvest Festival donations from our wonderful schools, churches and other organisations, we were struggling to keep up with demand. Between January and the end of September 2022 we have distributed food to the value of £98,000 compared to £68,000 in the same period in 2021 – a staggering increase.
“We know that inflation is now running at over 10% and that those on lower incomes are hit disproportionately as they spend a larger part of their incomes on food. Office of National Statistics figures now show that the price of budget food items in supermarkets soared by 17% in the year to the end of September, with some staples like pasta, tea and cooking oil rising by over 65% in the same period. Unfortunately, we can only see the situation getting worse as we go forward. This is why we are constantly looking to how we can improve and build upon what we do. We do also desperately need a new building to enable us to run our services safely and with dignity to our clients. If anyone can help with this, please contact us.”
The charity announced that they have taken food at five back indoors, providing hot nutritious meals free of charge to those on low income. The project also provides a warm space for people to meet, with resources provided for families, children and others, with people welcome to arrive at 4.30pm. They run on Mondays at the Key Centre on the Mount, Wednesdays at Frome Cricket Club, and Thursdays at Trinity Church Hall, with the meal served at 5.00pm.
They are also looking at extending the number of days the service is provided when funding is available. A takeaway service is also provided at the same venues. Fair Frome have also now started a baby basics bank, providing new and second-hand baby equipment, all meeting safety standards and in good condition.
The charity is also gearing itself up for Christmas when they provide additional seasonal food to clients, schools and toys for children.
Fair Frome coordinators Lenka Grimes and Rosie Oakley said, “We are doing everything we can with our wonderful volunteers and supporters to try and help people through what is an increasingly difficult time. Without the financial and food donations from our community, we couldn’t do the work that is so needed. If anyone has any queries, please contact us on the number or email below.”
To contact Fair Frome ring, 01373 488578 or 0771457129 or email fairfromeinfo@gmail.com
