READERS are being asked to give something up for Lent – and donate it to the local foodbank instead.
Items like instant mash, corned beef, tinned fruit and washing up liquid are all needed as Redditch Foodbank struggles to meet demand from those finding it impossible to make ends meet.
Time was when Shrove Tuesday saw cupboards scraped bare in one last blow out before fasting for Lent started until the first crops became available around Easter time.
It’s the same with the foodbank which has seen stocks run low after Christmas, prompting the appeal for people to do what they can to help others less fortunate than themselves.
“The Trussell Trust came up with the idea of ‘Adlent’ to encourage people to donate to the foodbank during Lent,” said Redditch Foodbank manager Laura Kyte.
“It’s an opportunity to raise awareness as traditionally people give something up for Lent but as well as giving something up, people might like to give something back too.
“Despite overwhelming generosity at Christmas from the people of Redditch, we are experiencing a demand that matches and even exceeds the amount of stock we collected and food has been going from our shelves quicker than ever,” she added.
“We would really value people’s support as we endeavour to keep up with the demand that we and foodbanks across the country are facing.
“Lent is a good time to think of how we can make a difference to someone’s else’s life.”
Donations can be dropped in to Redditch Foodbank in St Stephen’s Church, at the Town Hall, Tescos in Coldfield Drive, Rees Cafe in Church Road, Thomas Cook in the Kingfisher Shopping Centre and at Asda.
For a copy of your Adlent Calendar, visit www.trusselltrust.org and search for adlent calendar.
