How Malling Foodbank is responding to the cost of living crisis

Volunteers at Malling Foodbank in Lewes have developed new services designed to cater for a growing number of clients who are struggling with the rise in the cost of living.

Since January the number of people visiting the Malling Foodbank in Kings Church has gone up by 30%. In response the foodbank and the Church have expanded and improved their services.

In a recent visit Cllrs Janet Baah and John Lamb learned that the Foodbank as well as being open every Monday between 12.00 and 1.00, is also open on Thursdays and Saturdays so clients can top up with fresh food donated by local supermarkets.

Mondays will soon see Kings Church provide a warm space from 11.00 to 3.00 with teas, coffees, soup and rolls available. During the school holidays, the Church operates a Lunchbox scheme whereby schools nominate kids on free school meals and their families, who can then receive a hot lunch.

The 117 people who visit Kings Church regularly are now offered bread, milk, juice and eggs, which the Foodbank buys from local suppliers, as well as food provided by donations and by Fareshare go and Neighbourly: nationwide charities that redistribute surplus food.

“The emphasis is on providing the basics and food that can be cooked using as little energy as possible, such as tinned potatoes and microwave rice,” said Anna Scott, Administrator. “The foodbank does its best to cater for the dietary requirements of clients too.”

Malling Foodbank offers more than food: it provides information on sources of grants and financial help and it works with other organisations including Home Link, a family charity, and Open Door, which supports homeless people. The Church recently helped a Foodbank client obtain a fridge with funding secured from the charity Acts 435.

The Councillors heard troubling stories about the difficulties clients face. One woman says her benefit doesn’t last till the end of the week, another that she is afraid of putting on her heater and a third client does not have enough warm clothes. One mother has to use detergent that her daughter is allergic to, because that is all she can get through the Foodbank.

“A lady I spoke with appeared tired. She explained she sleeps on the sofa as she cannot afford a bed,” said Cllr Baah. “This leads me to believe that there is a whole layer of deprivation among clients. Malling Foodbank is a vital lifeline for them and deserves all the support we can give it.”

Cllr Baah has since become a volunteer at the Foodbank.