Bedford Foodbank has been given a boost to help families struggling during the coronavirus pandemic, thanks to a £23,000 government grant from Bedford Borough Council.
As a result of the pandemic, more residents than ever before are experiencing food poverty.
The Foodbank grant follows the success of the council’s community hub which was set up at the start of the ‘lockdown’ period and helped 9,000 residents with requests including food parcels and help with shopping.
Bedford Foodbank provide emergency food and support to local people as part of the nationwide network of foodbanks.
The funding will help the charity in providing continued to support to those in urgent need and is provided through the Local Authority Emergency Assistance Grant for Food and Essential Supplies provided to local authorities by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
Councillor Michael Headley, Portfolio Holder for Finance at Bedford Borough Council said, “We’re really pleased to be able to support Bedford Foodbank in its work to help those most in need locally. We hope this funding will be able to make a real difference to the lives of those struggling with the economic impact of COVID-19.”
Sarah Broughton, Project Manager for Bedford Foodbank, said, “Bedford Foodbank is delighted to receive this funding from Bedford Borough. This money will enable us to continue supporting households who are experiencing food poverty due to the pandemic, providing non-perishable food, toiletries and cleaning products.”
