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VIVID has continued to support Basingstoke Foodbank by providing them with a more permanent base, allowing the foodbank to continue its operations, and meet the increase in demand for its services during this difficult time. The move follows the £24,000 funding and temporary warehouse space provided back in May by VIVID.
Coronavirus and the recent national lockdown has meant demand for foodbanks across the country has continued to rise, with Basingstoke Foodbank under immense pressure to bolster its operations, and provide essential food parcels for those in need within its local community.
This increasing demand, coupled with the need to socially distance, has made things difficult for the volunteers working at the foodbank. The new warehouse provided earlier in the year gave the foodbank the extra space to work safely and effectively, and now as a longer-term solution, VIVID is leasing the Tempus Business Centre to the foodbank for 2 years, at a subsidised rate. The premises gives the foodbank the certainty to carry on its great work, as well as office space, additional storage options, and ample room to operate safely in line with social distancing regulations.
Mark Perry, Chief Executive at VIVID, said: “Coronavirus is continuing to have a big impact on many of our communities, and as an organisation, we are working hard to support our customers, especially through this second lockdown. We acknowledge that there are many people within our community that are struggling with the implications of the pandemic, particularly those who are having to self-isolate, those who are unable to get to the shops, those who are older, or those experiencing financial hardship. Therefore, we’re delighted to be working with Basingstoke Foodbank on a longer-term basis, who are truly a lifeline to those in need at this challenging time. We hope the premises enables them to continue to reach those who need it most.”
Chair of Trustees at Basingstoke Foodbank, Phil Thomas, commented: “Our partnership with VIVID has been a massive benefit to the foodbank and people in need in Basingstoke. This latest subsidised lease gives foodbank the security needed to ensure we can focus on meeting food needs across the Basingstoke & Deane region while the impact of the pandemic continues.”
People in need of food provisions should contact one of the agencies found on the Basingstoke Foodbank website: www.basingstoke.foodbank.org.uk. Alternatively, they can ring the National Citizens Advice helpline (0808 208 2138) or their local Citizens Advice office, who will offer support, advice and if needed, will refer them to Basingstoke Foodbank for a home delivery of emergency food and toiletries.