Generous shoppers at Harboorugh Market

Harborough Market is delighted with the response to its food bank collection which took place during British Food Fortnight at the market on Northampton Road.

Market food hall traders ran special offers during the annual celebration of British produce to highlight their fabulous local products, but also felt it was a perfect opportunity to raise awareness that not everyone has the same access to food as others by collecting food for the Market Harborough Jubilee Food Bank.

Colin, Rosemarie, Joan, Derek and Margaret

Since its launch in 2012 the Jubilee Food Bank volunteers have been collecting, sorting and delivering basic food to referring agencies to help people in food crisis. This crisis might be caused by delays to benefit payments, by money just not going far enough or by sudden changes in family circumstances. Feeding approximately 120 people per month, the food bank provides a much needed service.

Jubilee Food Bank Committee Manager, Colin Sole was thrilled with the market’s donation. “The generosity of people is overwhelming,” he said. “But it’s not just food donations that we need. We need more volunteers to help us meet increased demand as well as cloth bags and bags for life to transport the items.”

Market Place and Harborough Market Manager, Sairah Butt, was also delighted with the response. “It is great to see the community come together and support such a wonderful cause. After seeing the volunteers hard at work myself, it brings it home how much of an essential service they provide. We are proud to have been able to play a part in helping with our collection.”

Anyone interested in volunteering with the food bank can email jubileefoodbankmh@gmail.com Long life food donations can be delivered to the drop off point at the Market Harborough Congregational Church on Bowden Lane.