Christmas appeal for Epsom and Ewell Foodbank

Foundation Learning students have launched a Christmas appeal for a local charity.

Students across the department are collecting items for Epsom and Ewell Foodbank, which supports people experiencing hardship.

Students, parents, staff, employers and visitors can take donations to offices N18, N17, N209, BE118 or S115, or to reception in the Skills Park, and Foundation Learning students will collect the items.

“Christmas is a particularly difficult time to be hungry, and our students wanted to do something to help,” said Lisa Moynihan, Head of Foundation Learning.

“We’re grateful to everyone who’s supported us so far, and we look forward to collecting as much as possible for the foodbank.”

Epsom and Ewell Foodbank is based in Ruxley Lane, and runs centres in Epsom, Ewell, Tadworth, Banstead and Leatherhead.

The branch is in urgent need of powdered milk, sanitary towels, toilet paper, ketchup and brown sauce and sponge puddings. It doesn’t currently need any baked beans, pasta, rice, pulses, soup or cereal.

This Christmas Epsom and Ewell Foodbank is also asking for donations of household items such as pillows, towels, flannels and hot water bottles, and donations towards Christmas meals.

Anyone in need of support from a food bank can speak to a professional such as a doctor, health visitor or social worker. They will make a referral and issue a voucher.

Staff at the foodbank can offer practical advice, and issue a parcel with three days of emergency food, with typical items including tinned vegetables and fruit, UHT milk, pasta and pasta sauce.

Many food banks also provide non-food items, including household items such as laundry detergent and washing up liquid, toiletries such as toothpaste and soap, and baby items and feminine hygiene.

Last year Epsom and Ewell Foodbank helped almost 600 people in December alone, and the charity is expecting this month to be its busiest ever.