Making a Difference with Boxes of Food
Aylesbury Box Company donates cardboard boxes to Aylesbury Vineyard Foodbank who have provided non-perishable essentials to 5000 individuals since March 2020. As we mark a year since the country went into lockdown, we want to showcase the dedication of foodbank volunteers.
The Kindness of Strangers
Foodbanks rely on the kindness of strangers. Donations of tinned and dried foods, as well as essential toiletries, are collected by supermarkets and community hubs. There is even a fabulous bus driver who visits some of the smaller villages around Aylesbury. FInd out how you could support Aylesbury Vineyard Storehouse.
Adding a few extra items to the shopping list is a simple way for people to help others in their neighbourhood. If this is something that you would like to do, collection points for Aylesbury Foodbank include Waitrose and Legacy Funeral Directors in the town centre, as well as Quainton Village Store.
Teams of volunteers divide the donations into boxes; providing a range of cupboard essentials for families in need. They then ensure that parcels are distributed. In addition to providing food, these volunteers also share a smile, kind word and a listening ear.
Many of the volunteers have volunteered at the foodbank for years, but the last 12 months have been especially challenging. Despite needing to keep themselves and their families safe, they have continued to give their time and make a difference.
On behalf of all of the 5000 recipients, we would like to say THANK YOU to all the volunteers working in the Aylesbury Foodbanks including Bridge the Gap.
Why Are Food Parcels Been Necessary?
Even with a good job, it isn’t always easy to make ends meet. When an unexpected event occurs, it can throw all your efforts to pay the bills and save for a rainy day. The pandemic was such an event.
A year ago, many business owners had no choice but to shut up shop. Many have been paying rent and bills for a year, without receiving any income. People like you and me, who have worked hard and invested years into building a successful business.
Employees were either furloughed or made redundant, either way, their income dropped overnight. Dedicated team players, experienced and skilled workers, through no fault of their own, facing the prospect of life without work. It might have initially been enjoyable to have a few weeks off to enjoy the good weather, but the novelty soon wears thin when bills need to be paid.
Some employees, who were new in post or on temporary contracts, may have lost their position without any entitlements. With limited job opportunities, the number of people registering as unemployed has increased in the last year. This number includes many school, college and university leavers.
This situation has forced more families than ever into positions of financial insecurity. Whilst there may be savings on outgoings including petrol, affording equipment to support home-schooling and other unexpected expenses can result in some difficult decisions. For some families, there is no choice but for individuals go hungry.
Community Donations
Thanks to teams of volunteers and generous donations from the community, foodbanks have provided boxes of food and toiletries that can make a difference.
We may be coming out of lockdown, but it will take time for many families to get back on their feet. If you would like to contribute to food boxes or offer your time as a volunteer, visit the Aylesbury Vineyard Storehouse, Aylesbury Foodbank and Bridge the Gap websites for details.
