How our food bank works
Our food bank offers compassion, advice and practical support to people left without enough money to live on.
What is a food bank?
Food banks provide emergency food and practical support to people who have been left without enough money to live on.
People also get emotional support, and a reminder that they are not alone and someone understands. Our volunteers offer a friendly face and basic kindness. For many people, it’s the first time someone has sat down and listened to them – especially when they have been worn down by the way our social security system currently works.
Providing emergency food
What is a food voucher?
A food voucher is required to get help from a food bank. Community organisations such as Chichester District Council, Citizens Advice, housing associations, GPs, schools and advice charities can provide a referral for a food voucher, which is then exchanged for a food parcel at our food bank.
More than food
We offer holistic support and advice to people, often at their toughest moment, in two ways: through support from our partners at our food bank, and through other external advice services.
This wraparound approach connects people with wider support and puts more money into their pockets, making it far less likely someone will need a food bank in the future.
We also run a 'Beyond Food: Stronger Futures programme' of groups and workshops to help people build skills and confidence, make local connections and boost their wellbeing. All activities are free. You can find out more here.
Who runs the food bank?
Our food bank is run by the local community, for the local community. We have a small staff team of 7, most of which are part time. We are supported by over 200 volunteers who are local people committed to providing support across the area.
Our food bank is an independent charity, with an independent board of trustees.