FAIR Frome has made an appeal asking for help for the town’s most vulnerable people.
“Fair Frome recognises that whilst the current Coronavirus pandemic will impact on everyone, those who are already struggling financially and those who suddenly find themselves without an income will be hardest hit,” says the group.
“Whilst we are working with other groups and the town council to do all we can to help, we also have our difficulties as many of our volunteers are older and already have health issues and so are self-isolating.
“Our main priority is to keep the food bank operating. We have had to close Food at Five and the Furniture Bank following the latest government advice and to ensure we have the cover to keep the food bank operating.
“Many people may not realise that running the food bank is like operating a small shop. Food has to be collected, sorted, bagged and distributed. All this requires volunteers. We are hugely grateful to our staff and volunteers for the work they do and the many donations of food and cash we receive from the Frome public.
“We are aware though that with supermarkets rationing food and short supplies, those donations are dwindling. That’s why we desperately need the public’s help in keeping donations coming in. We are also very grateful to Susannah Walker who is crowdfunding for us to buy any food we need for as long as we can.
“If people need the food bank they must go through a referral point as at present. E.g. Mendip Citizens Advice, Job Centre Plus, health visitors, Mendip Health Connections, Frome Medical Practice, social services etc. Although some points are closed, telephone lines are usually open. Fair Frome cannot take on the wider work of the community in supporting all those who are ill or self-isolating.
“The two drop-in surgeries; the housing enquiry surgery on a Tuesday and Aster tenants’ surgery are both closed until further notice.
“To find out about changes to services please look at our Facebook page (or website www.fairfrome.org) or call us 01373 488578 or 07714 587129. “
