Published Wednesday 27 January 2016 at 10:25
BLACKBURN Foodbank is asking people to donate plastic carrier bags to help them distribute food packages to those in need in East Lancashire.
The charity is on the front line of supporting those who struggle to afford the necessary groceries to maintain a basic diet. They receive donations from churches, schools, local firms and individuals of non-perishable and in-date food items. But they are desperately in need of plastic carrier bags to make sure they can hand out the vital food packages to those who desperately need them.
With shops now charging 5p for plastic bags, following new laws which came into force last year, the foodbank is relying on kind-hearted donations to avoid having to pay for the bags.
A message on their Facebook page said: “We are short of carrier bags again. If you have any spare, we would be grateful for them.”
Blackburn with Darwen Council’s executive member for regeneration and keen foodbank supporter, Councillor Phil Riley, said: “Blackburn Foodbank provides an excellent and vital service within the community, helping those most in need.
“A lack of plastic carrier bags might not seem like a big problem to most people, but without them the foodbank struggles to package up the food parcels.
“What’s more, I’m sure everyone has a few extra bags tucked away which they would only be too happy to donate – or even be glad to get rid of.
“By working together, we can solve two problems at once and ensure this superb service can continue its fine work.”
Bags can be dropped off at the centre, based at The Oaks in Oakenhurst Road, Blackburn, between 11am and 2pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Blackburn Foodbank, which was set up in November 2012 and is operated by the Trussell Trust, collects donations of food which are then sorted into packages by volunteers, ready for distribution.
People in need of support are identified by frontline care professionals – doctors, social workers and the police – and are given foodbank vouchers, which they can then exchange for a three-day emergency food package, while at the centre they can also speak to volunteers over a cup of tea or have a hot meal.
Anyone who wants more information on Blackburn Foodbank can contact the centre on 01254 672756.