Four years after setting up the Angel Trust, Chief Executive, Clair McGregor and the team, did not expect to be in the position they have found themselves in.
With the cost of living crisis the way it is, the charity has been inundated with referrals, and people from the local community, ranging from people on benefits to working people who are paying bills but then have no money for food, and those that have lost their jobs. Clair says that they have also had teachers coming in saying that children were not being fed and asking for food parcels.
With a large increase in demand for food parcels, each morning when they arrive to open the shop, people are queuing, and on average 100 people are visiting every day. The charity is the only Trussell Trust foodbank within Bishop Auckland.
A spokesperson for Trussell Trust has said that people are turning off cookers and fridges as they are unable to afford the cost, and a spokesperson from the East Durham Trust, has commented that the situation is only going to get worse.
For a membership of £5 a year, people are able to fill a basket for £5 each shop. With referrals from officials to the food bank, people can collect a box of essentials and have a free shop. The Community Pantry is open Tuesday and Friday 10am until 2pm. The FoodBank is open Monday and Friday 11am until 2pm.
The Angel Trust are hoping local businesses could help by donating surplus food that they would probably throw away. The Angel Trust are also looking for volunteers, so if you are interested in volunteering, please contact the office on 01388 737270.
Bishop Auckland's local community newspaper.
