Shepway Foodbank: How to Donate, and How to Get Help

The Shepway Foodbank is an increasingly important service locally, with demand for its services increasing across the area. Demand for foodbanks is increasing nationally, and that's also evident locally.

As an example, from 1 January to 15 March, the Shepway Foodbank redeemed 287 foodbank vouchers, which has fed 600 individuals (a dramatic increase from the same period in 2018 - 91 vouchers redeemed, 357 individuals fed).

Obviously, we'd all prefer that there was less (no) need for foodbanks anywhere. The increase in usage is widely blamed on the roll-out of Unversal Credit amongst other issues, and the government could, and should, make amendments to that scheme to make sure no family is left in a position they have no money for food. But there IS currently a need, and many local residents are being incredibly generous in supporting their neighbours through the Shepway Foodbank.

There are drop off points for people donating food across the area, including:

• Asda, Folkestone.
• Rainbow Shop, Cheriton, Folkestone.
• Waitrose, Hythe.
• Sainsbury's, New Romney.
• Sandgate Parish Council & Library, Sandgate
• Numerous other locations , please phone 07913 573403 for a collection of a larger amount.

The Foodbank issue regular updates on what sorts of food they most need at the moment. They are published in a variety of locations (including as posters near most drop-off points), and there is a regularly updated online list at http://www.sandgatepc.kentparishes.gov.uk/foodbank/

The following agencies issue Foodbank vouchers for the Shepway Foodbank.

Agencies will request ID, or a utility bill with the address (if the client has an address), and a benefits letter/bank statement showing their need for this service.

Citizens Advice Bureau

• Units 4-6 Princes Gate, George Lane, Folkestone, CT20 1RH
• Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings 9.30 -12.30
• Clients should be there at approx. 9.30am, where they will be given an interview time for later that morning.

Harbour Church - St Saviours

• 130 Canterbury Road, Folkestone, CT19 5PH
• Tuesday and Thursday 9:30-12:00

Kent Coast Volunteering - Folkestone & Hythe Hub

• 65 Shaftesbury Avenue, Cheriton, Folkestone CT19 4NS
• Tuesday and Thursday 11:00 - 14:00

St. Michaels Church, Hythe

• Rampart Road, Hythe CT21 5BE (rear entrance in Chapel Street)
• Friday 10:30-12:00

Romney Marsh Community Church

• North Street, New Romney TN28 8DW
• Monday - Friday mornings 9:30 - 12:00

All Saints Rectory, Lydd

• Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday - 10:00 - 16:00
• 01797 320345
• This Centre can also provide emergency food boxes