Isobel Visits the Trussell Trust

Trussell Trust operates over 1,200 food banks in the UK. Since partnering with them, several Payzone and Post Office retailers have set up their collection points in-store to take donations. Donations are then distributed to those who need it within the local area. 

To learn more about the fantastic work the Trussell Trust is doing, our staff have been visiting their local food banks to see their efforts first hand.

We join Isobel Fixter, our Senior Marketing Manager.

Isobel went to her local Trussell Trust depot in Ellesmere Port to lend a hand and see the work they were doing. Here is what Isobel had to say about the experience.

“Nobody should have to choose between heating or eating. And yet, so many people could be forced to make that choice this winter. That’s why I recently volunteered my time at the West Cheshire Trussell Trust food bank in Ellesmere Port. 

I learnt about the great work that they do for the community, and I was sad to hear about how a growing number of children in the area are unfortunately going to bed at night hungry because their parents are struggling to feed them, despite skipping meals themselves. A recent feature on ITV news details the struggles some families are facing across the country: https://www.itv.com/news/2020-11-22/heating-or-eating-the-agonising-dilemma-some-face-this-winter 

As we enter the winter months, there is the added pressure of fuel costs, not to mention a rise in living costs, unexpected expenses, changes of income or benefits and unexpected illnesses. It all adds pressure to families during what has already been a very challenging year.

Lindsey, the lovely lady who runs the Ellesmere Port food bank, explained how the food bank acts as a lifeline to so many in the local area. It gives those who are most vulnerable peace of mind that they have somewhere to turn to if they find themselves forced to choose between eating and heating.

The fantastic team at Ellesmere Port run the food bank like an army base - everything has its place. The food is organised in date order and stored correctly. 

Over 90% of the food distributed to those in need, has been donated by the public. The Trussell Trust is grateful that they always seem to have the essentials such as rice and pasta. However, Lindsey mentioned that they are in desperate need of niceties like sweets and crisps, as well as healthcare products like toothpaste and shower gel. 

I am very appreciative of everything that these volunteers do at the food banks, as well as those who make donations. 2020 is the year for kindness and pulling together, which is why I will continue to volunteer my time at my local food bank and make regular donations to food collection points in my local shops.”

Support your local community by setting up your own food bank collection point in your Payzone store. Find out more about our partnership with the Trussell Trust and what you can do to get involved here.