Network of volunteers providing food to those in need across the city

Published: 12 May 2020

A network of organisations and community volunteers are continuing to distribute food to vulnerable people across the city.

In St Thomas, the church and community association is helping to collect and supply food to those in need and who may not be able to access help in other ways.

Rev Julian Albrow, Methodist Minister at St Thomas Church, representing Churches Together in West Exe, said: “We got together and realised that in this situation there is a need for families and people who are really struggling at this moment in time.

“We set up the community larder to help people who might not be able to sign up for community credit and who aren’t in any system and do not qualify to get any food from things like traditional foodbanks. So we are trying to bridge that gap for those few weeks while people sort themselves out.

“If you are in that situation and feel we could be of any help, either speak to the local schools or doctor’s surgery, or come on in to the church and we will help you to fill in the necessary forms.”

Paul Mouland, of Freemovement, which is helping to distribute the food, said around 30 people had volunteered to take part in deliveries.

He said: “We run cycling groups getting people out in different parts of the city and as part of the current situation we use volunteer cyclists to go out and deliver food for people.

“We are partnering up with lots of organisations, in the local community, like churches and the St Thomas Community Association, because they need the support and we are happy to provide them with the support they need.

“They have a good infrastructure in place where they can gather and supply the food, and we can distribute it for them.”

Exeter Community Wellbeing is helping to match volunteers to those needing help. To volunteer your time or to request support, call 01392 265000. Lines open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat-Sun 9am-12 midday.