Medway and Maidstone Soroptimists were contacted by Medway Foodbank on 16 May. They were looking for volunteers to help with the Tesco summer Food collection. The collection was from Thursday 30th June to Saturday 2nd July at Tesco Gillingham and Tesco Strood stores.
Stella and Jane Barnes volunteered at Tesco Gillingham on both the Thursday and Friday mornings. Leaflets were handed to the customers with lists of what essential items needed by the Foodbank and food donations were accepted.
Tescos are long term supporters of the Foodbank. For every item donated in-store by customers they donate 20% in cash. This goes towards the administrative costs of running the Foodbank.
Stella and Jane bought essential items listed on the leaflet such as shampoo and conditioner, sanitary towels, tampons, shaving foam, toilet rolls, pasta sauces, fruit squash and dog food. These were then donated to the Foodbank.
Many customers are experiencing challenges faced by so many in the current climate with increases in the cost of living. However, they appreciated the valuable work done by the Foodbank and made generous food donations. It was a pleasing result for the Foodbank as they collected 2,522.30 kg of donations over the 3 days at the Gillingham Tesco store.