Food bank supporting families during pandemic
By Aimee Walsh
A FOOD bank has been set up to support those in the local area who are in need or requiring necessities during the pandemic.
The food bank is located in Ballycullen, Firhouse and runs donation nights every few weeks at Knocklyon United Clubhouse.
Tracy, Sue and Karen in Knocklyon United Football Club
Organiser of the Food Bank, Tracy, says she started the food parcels three years ago for Christmas to help those needing the essentials.
“I was just doing it at Christmas, and I was giving food parcels to people and then Covid came, and it got bigger and bigger, and more people were looking for things and the food parcels.
“I was doing it all from my house, Knocklyon United very kindly lent me their clubhouse so we have it all set out in Knocklyon United, and we have donation nights and people drop off then.”
The food bank aims to help those that may have lost their jobs due to the pandemic or have had hours cut and are struggling financially, like so many across the country at the moment or just those going through a tough time.
Food bank orgaiser Tracy
“Covid made things a lot worse and a lot of people were in need. As you know, it is a whole different story. I have two or three main volunteers that help with the deliveries, we pop it at people’s doors.
“We just want to support as many people/families as we can, if anyone needs a food parcel, they can contact us and we can arrange everything all private and confidential.
“We literally take any donations of any food because everybody takes everything, nobody ever turns their nose up.”
Tracy says they are currently on the hunt for a fridge, as they have received so many fridge donations.
“We are looking for a fridge at the moment, so if anyone has a fridge that they would like to donate we would be very grateful.
“We take everything from non-perishable items, toiletries, toilet rolls, we take nappies, fridge donations.
“The Village coffee house in Templeogue have been brilliant, they have been donating lots of stuff to us, they have been great.”
The food parcel donations are all strictly confidential and Covid safe, and nobody should ever feel embarrassed to seek help, as times are tough.
If you would like to donate or would appreciate a parcel, you can find more information on the Ballycullen Food Bank Facebook page or contact ballycullenfoodbank@gmail.com
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