A FOOD bank is changing the way it operates in order to make it easier for people to donate.

StoreHouse, which is operated by Influence Church in Victoria Road, Richmond, has seen record numbers of people needing to use its food bank facility in the last two years.

In one week alone, it feeds up to 40 adults and children in Richmond and the surrounding areas.

StoreHouse relies almost entirely on public generosity and is currently being challenged with the increasing need of families and individuals who use the service.

They have now joined forces with local Co-op branches, which have set up collection points to provide more opportunities for people to drop off their donations, or to simply add an extra item or two as they do their weekly shop.

Helen Whitfield, store manager at the Catterick Village branch said: “We are committed to doing what we can to help our communities and we are pleased to be able to help this worthy cause.”

The drop-off points are now available in participating Co-op branches – and the staff and volunteers at StoreHouse are hopeful that they will see a much-needed rise in contributions to the food bank with store cupboard products such as tinned and dried food.

Suz Gregory, StoreHouse co-ordinator said: “After a busy Thursday, the stock room is almost empty.

“We are truly grateful for the Co-op’s help and we hope that this will enable the increase in stock required to fill this growing need in our community.

  • Donations can be dropped off at the following Co-op branches Leyburn, Catterick Village, Colburn, Richmond or can be brought directly to Influence Church, Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm.