Libraries join the fight against food poverty

Bury library service has teamed up with local charity Porch Boxes to help tackle the growing issue of food poverty.

Porch Boxes was set up in 2001 and has provided thousands of crisis food parcels every year to members of the community. 

Three libraries have also been designated as pilot centres in order to help distribute food parcels to those most in need once they have been referred by a professional such as their GP, social worker, teachers or church ministers.

In addition to the food parcels, staff in the designated libraries will be able to offer assistance on benefits, job searching and training to help individuals in the longer term.

Donations of non-perishable food can be handed in at any of Bury’s libraries which will then be forwarded to Porch Boxes. 

For information about the Porch Boxes Scheme visit their website http://www.porchboxes.org.uk/site/

ENDS

Press release issued: 29 April 2013.