Foodbank gets support from major retailer

Foodbank gets support from major retailer

16 May 2018

THE Fountain Foodbank in Downpatrick has secured the support of another major retailer.

Asda has confirmed it is to provide the cross-community charity with a dedicated collection point at its Ballydugan retail park store to help the organisation with its distribution of food parcels to those in need.

Supervalu already provides a dedicated collection point at its Ballymote store in Downpatrick with another one at Milligan’s shop in Ardglass. Local churches, individuals, schools and other organisations also make valuable contributions to the foodbank located Downpatrick Presbyterian Church.

Those behind the initiative are delighted that Asda has weighed in with its support for the vital work the food bank carries out in the town and surrounding area.

Fountain Foodbank volunteer co-ordinator Shirley Lennon said the charity was grateful to everyone who supported its work.

“We are very pleased to be working in partnership with Asda and grateful to the company for its support,”she said. “The company’s backing is amazing and we are absolutely delighted.”

The formal launch of the new dedicated collection point is scheduled to take place next weekend.

People can be referred to the facility for a variety of reasons, including cuts and delays in benefits, family illness or bereavement, pressure on home budgets and sudden emergencies.

The foodbank is a community effort with volunteers committed to meeting a continuing need for help.

It is understood all Asda stores are to have a relationship with the foodbanks in their respective areas and while the facility in Downpatrick will be unmanned, Mrs Lennon hopes local people will continue with their support.

People from all walks of life and backgrounds have joined forces to help those in need, with the volunteers working to help struggling families and individuals who find themselves in need.

The introduction of the new Universal Credit benefit system this week may impact on local families, with the foodbank volunteers available to help if their support is required.

Mrs Lennon added: “We are grateful for all the support we receive to help us meet the needs of others and it is tremendous to have the support of Asda behind us.”

Donations can be left at the Fountain Foodbank on Tuesday or Friday mornings. The contact number is 07444 015883 or email fountainfoodbank@gmail.com.