THE year 2024 has been one of increasing financial hardship for many individuals and families, but at Crediton Foodbank and Support Hub, the volunteers continue to be a vital source of support and hope, thanks to the unwavering generosity of the community in Crediton and the surrounding villages.

Despite the economic challenges, local businesses and individual donors alike have stepped forward to provide financial and practical contributions, helping the Foodbank and Support Hub alleviate stress and hardship for those in need.

A LIFELINE

So far this year, the Foodbank and Hub have distributed 1,883 food parcels, providing an incredible 62,265 meals and feeding 4,151 people.

Foodbank volunteers said: “These numbers highlight just how essential our Foodbank is in ensuring no one in our community goes hungry.”

BEYOND FOOD PARCELS

The volunteers added: “While food parcels remain central to what we do, we’ve worked hard to expand our services over the past two years.

“Through our Springboard Initiative, we employ a dedicated worker who can advise on prevent homelessness and unmanageable debt, improve health and wellbeing, and enable people to rebuild their lives and move on to a new beginning.

“Thanks to our partnerships with energy advisers and South West Water, we help individuals secure the best deals on their utility bills, providing a more sustainable path to financial stability.

TACKLING SOCIAL ISOLATION

This year, the Foodbank launched a new initiative to tackle social isolation and build a stronger sense of community.

Every Friday morning from 10am to 12 noon, it hosts a Cafe in Crediton Congregational church where people can meet in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

It is a chance to enjoy a cup of tea, connect with others, and learn about the support available that could help them move beyond needing the Foodbank.

Staff and volunteers are always on hand to create a warm, welcoming environment for anyone who walks through our doors.

THE SLOW COOKER SCHEME

The Foodbank says that the Slow Cooker Scheme has been another success story for the Foodbank this year. When it initially rolled it out with 50 slow cookers, it said that the feedback from clients was overwhelmingly positive.

A spokesperson said: “Many people told the Foodbank that they had learned how to cook more nutritious and cost-effective meals, which had been life-changing for them.

“We’re now planning to expand this scheme, bringing the benefits of slow cooking to even more families.

A COMMUNITY OF VOLUNTEERS

“Our Foodbank is powered by an amazing group of volunteers, and we couldn’t do what we do without them.

“From students gaining valuable experience for their Duke of Edinburgh Award to younger children who’ve contributed to this year’s Christmas in a Bag initiative, every helping hand makes a difference.

“This year, children have helped us assemble bags full of Christmas treats, presents, and activity packs for households of all sizes, spreading warmth and joy during the festive season.”

EMPOWERMENT AND INDEPENDENCE

The spokesperson concluded: “At Crediton Foodbank, we’re committed to providing practical support and a compassionate ear for those facing tough times.

“Our goal isn’t just to meet immediate needs but to empower people to achieve financial independence and improve their quality of life.

“In an ideal world, foodbanks wouldn’t need to exist, but for as long as we are needed, we’ll continue to make a difference.”

To learn more about the work or to support Crediton Foodbank, please visit: www.creditonfoodbank.org.uk .