Could you use a food bank?

The following blog was written by a food bank client from the Axminster Health & Wellbeing Centre. This person would like to remain anonymous but we are very thankful for their wonderful feedback.

A donation from a  local school


"I recently found myself in a position where I had no money and no one I could ask for help so that I could buy food to keep me going until my next pay day came round. I struggled on for as long as I could but, in the end, I realised that I would have to swallow my pride and go into the local food bank to see if they could help me out. I initially felt very awkward asking for help as I am so fiercely independent but, everyone I spoke to in relation to getting help was so lovely that I very quickly stopped worrying about it. I was concerned about being able to get the types of foods I am able to eat as I have to really watch my diet and, even though I felt like I was asking too much, they were very helpful in understanding the types of food I can have so that they could put my food parcel together. I was very impressed with how vigilant everyone was about food intolerances and allergies as well. When I collected my food parcel a couple of days later, I was again treated so well and the quantity of food they supplied me with was amazing and easily kept me going until I got paid again. I cannot fault the staff running the food bank and I feel that I can’t thank them enough for all of the lovely food they gave me. It is very clear to see that they genuinely care about helping people in need and taking away the one of the worries they have to deal with. If I know of anyone who needs help I will definitely send them down to Canned Sunshine at the Axminster Health & Wellbeing Centre. And if I need help again in the future, I will definitely go back and speak to them. Thank you, Canned Sunshine, you are awesome!"

A food bank volunteer making up supplies

If you would like to help with our food bank or give a donation please come into the Centre and have a chat or phone 01297 32331 and see what differences you could make.