College creates food bank support systems for local families

Walsall College is teaming up with local food banks to support black country families and vulnerable people in need.

The college is collecting food items on-site for local organisations.  They are also working towards becoming a referral agent for people requiring access to food banks.

“We are aware that foodbanks have seen a surge in demand.  Particularly over the last few months,” said Andrea Packer, Interim Head of Student Services and Wellbeing at the college.

“It feels apt for us to be a focal point for people experiencing hardship.  In turn, we are bringing together those eager to help in any way they can.”

Andrea Packer continued: “Different areas of our network are involved in our donation and distribution activities. It means we  are helping to prevent families going without this winter, particularly during Christmas.

“Thanks must go to everyone for their fantastic efforts.”

The college has the following initiatives in place:

• A donation of food (194kg/380 meals worth of food) has so far been collected by early years students and staff.  These have been passed on to Black Country Food Bank.
• Students and staff at the Hawbush Campus are regularly sending a collection box to Bloxwich and Blakenall Food Banks, part of The Trussell Trust.
• Students and staff at the Green Lane Campus are also collecting items on behalf of local food banks.
• The college’s employer responsive team is working with employer partners to provide Christmas boxes These can be collected from company premises or delivered to the college and then donated to food banks.
• The Little Professors Nursery and The Littleton are collecting on behalf of Black Country Food Bank.