A food bank at the heart of the community
Lambeth South and Croydon Foodbank, part of the Lambeth Foodbank Partnership, has been a vital lifeline for people in crisis. Owen, who manages dispatch, started volunteering at the food bank in 2020 during the first lockdown. Now a full-time staff member, he’s witnessed firsthand how essential their work is.
“Bankuet has had a huge impact on our food bank,” Owen shares. “It helps us get the stock we desperately need. We’re a well-run organisation, but we rely heavily on volunteers. The staff we do have are always stretched, so having Bankuet is absolutely essential.”
Keeping up with growing demand
Like many food banks across the UK, Lambeth South and Croydon is facing significant challenges. “Our biggest issue is the increasing demand alongside lower donations,” Owen explains. “We used to purchase around 20% of our stock, but in recent months that’s gone up to 30%, sometimes even 40%. That’s a drastic shift.”
The struggle to keep shelves stocked means tough decisions. “Just today, we received six cages of food from Bankuet,” Owen says. “That will help massively in the coming weeks. But we still need more donations to keep up with demand.”
Why donations matter now more than ever
The summer holidays are a particularly concerning time. “Our main worry is stock levels,” Owen says. “With lower donations coming in, we have to reassess how we pack our parcels. We don’t want to reduce parcel sizes, but if donations don’t increase, we may have no choice.”
And it’s not just food that’s in demand. “People assume we always have certain items in stock, but that’s not the case,” Owen adds. “Toilet roll, hygiene products—those are just as crucial, and we’re in desperate need of them.”
More than just food
The impact of food banks goes beyond providing meals. “Our food parcels provide three days’ worth of meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—which can be the difference between someone eating or going without,” Owen explains. “But we also signpost people to additional support, helping them access financial aid and other essential services. We’re not just a food bank—we’re a support system.”
The power of volunteering
For Owen, the most rewarding part of his job is the people. “The atmosphere here is incredible. Volunteers selflessly give their time to help others, and it’s amazing to see them coming back week after week, committed to making a difference.”
But ultimately, the goal is to no longer be needed. “The aim of a food bank should be that we no longer have to exist,” Owen says. “Until then, we’ll keep working to support those in need.”
How you can help
With demand rising, Lambeth South and Croydon Foodbank urgently needs your support. By donating food, money, or your time, you can help make sure no one in the community goes hungry.
One of the easiest ways to help is by donating through their page on Bankuet. Your online donation ensures the food bank receives exactly what they need, when they need it.
Help Bankuet get food banks what they need, when they need it.