Neighbour plan to help food bank expand

Neighbour plan to help food bank expandJust nowShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleBridie AdamsWest MidlandsWorcester FoodbankGrahame Lucas, the food bank manager, said the new unit would give them more storage space for donationsWorcester Foodbank is set to expand after securing permission to take over a neighbouring unit.The charity, which supports struggling households, said the expansion at its base on Lowesmoor Wharf would give its support services a "new lease of life".A spokesperson said they would broaden that support beyond food parcels and work on giving people who come to them access to emotional support, as well as advice from the local Citizens Advice group about budgeting.The expansion will also include more space for staff and an extra room to store incoming donations.The food bank said more than two-fifths of people who come to them make only one visit a year but 17% return six times or more.The existing warehouse, which distributed 14,244 emergency parcels last year, will also undergo a refurbishment. Plans include a new reception and serving area, so people no longer have to queue outside.Manager Grahame Lucas said: "With the brilliant backing of our new landlord, we can now plan for the future with the security and space we need to provide more than just food."Whether that's offering the comfort of a listening ear or equipping people with the advice and skills they need to get back on their feet."Several businesses have donated equipment to help with the work, including shelving from Poundland, paint from Dulux and volunteers from Severn Trent Water.Follow BBC Hereford & Worcester on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.More on this storyDad-of-three turns to food bank after job lossFood bank manager hits out at two-child benefit capCharity starts 'new chapter' with larger premisesRelated internet linksWorcester FoodbankFood banksCost of Living Worcester