Middlesbrough Foodbank is part of the Trussell Trust. We started in September 2012. The need has increased year on year.
Our Manager Soroush Sadeghzadeh works hard developing awareness with companies and agencies that try to help people. He is also responsible for the distribution of Vouchers. The warehouse on Skippers Lane Industrial Estate has the capacity to hold enough stock to supply each distribution centre. There are collection boxes in various company offices and in a lot of local churches. Foodbank is supported by Tesco supermarket who have a collection point in their Coulby Newham store for donations from local shoppers.
People who use foodbank are usually in crisis. Once they obtain a voucher, there is a list on the back of distribution centres with days and times. There is at least one distribution centre open every weekday. The voucher allows them to receive enough food for 3 meals a day for 3 days for each family member.
At St Barnabas we have a dedicated team of volunteers who offer a warm and friendly atmosphere with refreshments and a chance to chat whilst people wait for their food to be packed. We also signpost people to other agencies that may be able to help their situation. Prayer is also available.
For more information please check out our Foodbank website.