Donations to Bradford Metropolitan Food Bank

David reports :-

On the 28th of November I delivered  a boot full of supplies  from 8 Rotarians to the food bank, in the unused St. Marys Church. I found about 8/9 volunteers, wrapped up to the eye brows, working in temporary lights because  they operate in just a section of the vast ex-church. They were sorting out some donations but most were packing 100 carrier bags of new bags because they have issued over 400 bags during November alone. They use a standard bag to ensure fairness. The donations are spread around the hall, in different sections. They have had a good response from Harvest Festivals. They issue the bags to known and trusted Social workers,  charities, children society. etc. and don't deal with the clients direct.

Whilst I was there BCB Radio, (Bradford Community Broadcasting)  were doing an article on the Bank. At their request I did an interview explaining our support for the scheme, which went well.

They operate only on a Wednesday evening 7-00 to 8-30ish. I think our support is worthwhile.

Following on from this many more donations were received from Blaize Rotarians. In addition 15 carrier bags of food were donated by employees of Gordons solicitors in Bradford. Tim Ratcliffe was asked by the President to take the clubs thanks back to all those at his firm who had supported our efforts.

Also the Morrisons store at Guiseley had sent a large box of food via Pierre Richterich and Pierre was also asked to carry our thanks back to the manager for his support of this charity.

Overall the collected efforts were such that on the 12th of December it took 4 cars to take all the food to the warehouse for onward distribution. Furthermore the club members were so impressed by the charity that they agreed to make further monetary contributions to the charity in monthly amounts over the next three month.

For more details about this organisation please see their web site at http://bradfordfoodbank.com/