Melksham’s food bank has officially become a registered charity and marked the milestone with a launch event earlier this month.
Now known as Melksham Foodbank and Lifeline CIO, the charity will continue to provide thousands of food parcels to residents in Melksham and surrounding villages.
Charity status means the organisation can now claim Gift Aid on donations, which the team says will have a ‘significant’ impact.
Local councillors, charity members and other dignitaries attended the launch event to learn more about the charity’s work.
“Last year we distributed 8,317 food parcels. This could not have been achieved without support from local businesses, schools, churches and, of course, the amazing people of the Melksham area,” said Sharon Pearce from the charity.
“This support has included food and financial donations, fundraising events, grants, volunteering and prayer. Our event on 3rd June was to mark our new status and to thank those who have helped us along the way.
“We were disappointed not to be able to invite everyone who has supported us, but we are hugely grateful to all our donors and benefactors. We appreciate every penny and work hard to ensure good value for money.
“Food parcels are distributed to those referred by agencies such as social services, GPs, schools and probation staff. In some urgent cases, one-off emergency parcels may be provided. We work closely with other services and believe a holistic approach is needed to help people out of poverty – this is the ‘Lifeline’ part of our work.”
Throughout the year, the food bank includes seasonal treats such as Christmas goods and Easter eggs. “We are grateful to those who support this,” said Sharon.
“We often take for granted the chance to gather with loved ones for a meal. For those struggling to make ends meet, this can be an unaffordable dream.
“With support from Melksham Town Council, we’ve been able to offer events like a Christmas meal, monthly breakfasts and a summer BBQ to give people a sense of community and self-worth.”
