Tavistock Foodbank has seen a dramatic increase in demand over the past twelve months, assisting nearly 1000 people over the year, up from 650 in the previous year. Thankfully Tavistock has many generous people who donate what they can in order that no one in our community goes without. Anyone in need can be referred to the foodbank via the Citizens Advice Bureau, the Children’s Centre, the debt advice service DATA... just to name a few. Tavistock Foodbank in the United Reformed Church provides assistance to anyone in the PL19 and PL20 postcode areas. Acting chair of the trustees, Rob Weston, reflecting on the question of why there has been a significant rise in need, said: “None of us can give a definitive answer to this complex situation, it is likely that the introduction of Universal Credit is a factor but we are also aware of issues for people on zero-hours contracts who are in work but simply can’t budget in the way people have in the past. One thing is certain, any caring community cannot ignore those in need and clearly the community in and around Tavistock is such a caring community.”
The foodbank welcomes donations of food, which can be made via Tavistock churches or in Tesco and Co-op stores in Tavistock, where lists of required Christmas goods will be available, in addition to the following items currently needed: confectionery, shampoo, shaving foam, fruit juice, sponge puddings, rice (small), washing powder and sugar. Donations of money are also welcomed to ensure that vouchers can be issued for fresh vegetables and fresh meat products.