Thirteen million people live below the poverty line in the UK, with individuals going hungry every day. Low income, benefit delays and receiving an unexpected bill are just a few reasons contributing to the crisis. Many people find it difficult to cope with the everyday demands facing them. Food banks like this, Brighouse Central Foodbank, offer more than simply emergency food. They provide a sense of community and a point of contact with people who understand and are willing to help.
Following the closure of homeless charity BASH Local in late 2017, the Central Methodist Church in Brighouse set up a local food bank to support the homeless and most vulnerable local people. Brighouse Central Foodbank is open to those in need every Monday evening and Friday afternoon. It can be found at Brighouse Central Methodist Church, opposite Wilkinson’s.
Demand rises during summer
The school holidays can be a particularly stressful time of year for many families. The demand for a food bank service often increases over the summer months. Food banks are warning that children who get school meals can find themselves facing hunger during the holidays.
It’s important to raise awareness about the charity, especially among the local community. One of the ways we help is by supporting Brighouse Central Foodbank’s digital marketing. We keep its Facebook and Twitter up to date with news about its services. Social media is ideal for thanking those who donate not only food, but their time, to support the cause.
Pivotal’s company secretary, Jill Hatfield, often attends the Foodbank on a Friday to help hand out resources to the locals. She said: “No family should struggle when it comes to basic necessities such as food, but sadly it’s an issue that impacts many people, especially young families and the elderly. It’s humbling to see so many people of different ages and backgrounds from across the community wanting to contribute to this important cause.”
Want to donate?
You can do so at the BCMC itself, or find collection points at:
- Sainsbury’s Brighouse
- Tesco Brighouse
- St Matthew’s Church in Rastrick
Where to find Brighouse Central Foodbank
The food bank is in Central Methodist Church, on Parsonage Lane. It is open every Monday 6pm–7:30pm and Friday 1pm–3pm (except for bank holidays) for those who need help.
