The YMCA food bank issues emergency food parcels which contain enough food for 3 days. Typically a bag will contain cereal, pasta, tinned meat and vegetables, milk, sugar, tea and coffee.

We have operated a foodbank for over 20 years and our experiences show that it is not only people on benefits that need an emergency food parcel. People on low incomes, or have experienced breakdown or bereavement also view it as a lifeline. Benefit cuts and sanctions, low paid workers, unemployment and increased food costs have meant our food bank is always in demand.

The food bank could not operate without the generosity of the local community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Sometimes experience is required but training will be given.

Yes! Volunteering is a great thing to have on your CV.

Yes, due to the nature of the projects some volunteer positions will require a check.

Yes, a range of days and hours are available.

Yes, in some areas of our charity you will need to be over 18 but call us on 01283 538802 for more information.

Yes, just like applying for a job, we would ask for references.

If you can help, we need the following items:

Foodbank shopping list

  • Long life milk
  • Tinned potatoes
  • Tinned tomatoes
  • Tinned peas
  • Tinned carrots
  • Tinned spaghetti
  • Tinned hot dogs
  • Tinned rice pudding
  • Rice
  • Sugar
  • Instant pasta
  • Instant rice
  • Instant noodles
  • Tinned fruit
  • Tinned fish
  • Biscuits
  • Teabags
  • Jars pasta sauce
  • Instant coffee
  • Toiletries (Shower gel, shampoo, toothpaste)

Make a donation

Give a gift that could change the life of another. We support thousands of people in crisis every year providing a safety net of support services.