IN the Swanage & Wareham Advertiser letter from Malcolm Read of Essex complaining about the high prices in Swanage restaurants and cafés, he also wrote that there is need for a food bank here ‘if there is not one already’.

As he was only visiting the town, he might be excused for not knowing that Swanage Food Bank has been at work here for a number of years with large blue bins in our three main supermarkets and boxes at the backs of churches for donations of non-perishable food items.

We appreciate Mr Read’s concern for less-wealthy members of our community and especially those in food poverty.

These are the people whom Swanage Food Bank serves, mostly through referrals from our partner agencies such as Purbeck Citizens’ Advice, Swanage Children’s Centre, Social Services and EDP, but also through self-referrals when needed.

Our service is confidential and friendly, and we are only a phone call away on 07759 230313.

We have already helped over 220 adults and children (and a few family pets!) so far this year which amounts to over 2,500 meals provided.

May I also thank all your readers who so generously support Swanage Food Bank throughout the year with supplies of food and money donations.

As winter arrives, a number of kind-hearted senior citizens like to share all or some of their winter fuel allowance with us.

Just a reminder that cheques should be made out to ‘Swanage Food Bank’ with your address included if you wish to receive a grateful acknowledgement, and these be sent to Swanage Food Bank c/o 47 Ulwell Rd, Swanage BH19 1LG.

PAULINE WERBA

Swanage Food Bank, Ulwell Road, Swanage

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