Community Food Pantry receives £5,000 grant to help residents in need this Christmas

Gellideg Foundation is one of ten foodbanks or pantries within the Merthyr Tydfil County Borough that was awarded a cost-of-living support payment for the sum of £5,000.

The local authority grant will allow the project to purchase additional food, domestic cleaning items, personal hygiene products and provide access to additional support which helps address financial hardship such as access to energy vouchers for their customers.

Councillor Geraint Thomas, Leader of the Council said;
“It was a pleasure to meet the staff at the Gellideg Foundation and thank them personally for providing help and support to those who need it most during the cost-of-living crisis.

“During this difficult and challenging time, our foodbanks and pantries are doing brilliant work for local families by ensuring access to food, cleaning and hygiene products.

“Without places like this in our communities, people would be going without daily essentials, so this grant is vital for our residents in need.”

The concept of the Community Food Pantry is that members choose their own produce from the Pantry, much like a usual shop experience. For a minimal cost members have access to subsidised food, toiletries, and cleaning products, with all fruit, vegetables, bread, pastries and period products given for free.

Membership is open to everyone in Merthyr Tydfil, but there is clear focus on providing healthy, fresh food to households who have suffered a loss in income or are experiencing hardship.

Colette Watkins, Gellideg Foundation Group Manager said;
“Everyone is finding that their income is not meeting their expenditure and they are having to find ways to cut spending. People often cut down on food first because it’s easier – either the volume or the quality. So, by helping them access good quality, affordable food we’re lightening the load and making sure they don’t have to sacrifice their health to focus on other priorities.

“This additional funding received from Merthyr Tydfil County Borough Council has enabled us to offer additional items to our members during the lead up to the festive period, helping families who are most in need to have a happier, healthier Christmas.”

The other foodbanks and pantries that received the grant include Merthyr Cynon Foodbank, Taf Bargoed Food bank, Fir Tree Community Association, H Factor Group CYF (Ty Pantry) Hope Pantry, MTHA, Stephens & George Charitable Trust, TAG and Wales & West Housing Association.