Food bank opens in Hangleton

A weekly food bank has opened in Hangleton and has already fed dozens of people.

The Hangleton and West Blatchington Food Bank aims to provide help for individuals and families who find themselves in crisis or urgent need.

It’s open every Wednesday from 12.30pm to 2.30pm at St George’s Church Hall, in Court Farm Road, Hove.

It was set up jointly with the neighbouring St Peter’s Church, on the corner of Hangleton Road, Holmes Avenue and Court Farm Road, and the Hangleton and Knoll Project.

St Peter’s West Blatchington – picture by The Voice of Hassocks via Wikimedia Commons

Zoe Smith, the wife of the rector of St Peter’s, Daniel Smith, said: “We’ve set it up a bit like a café.

“We realise it can be difficult for people. They come to us when they’re in really desperate need.

“We have a weekly drop from Fare Share.

“We’re always looking for donations of food.”

Anyone needing help has to be referred by a social worker, doctor, school, church or other professional or community support organisation.

The volunteer-run food bank offers a hot or cold drink and a chat with someone who can point people to the right place for other help.

The food bank started in December and last week it helped 11 local families, feeding 33 people.

It is one of about a dozen across Brighton and Hove. A similar food bank in Portslade is reported to be even busier.

Mrs Smith spoke about the new food bank at the Hangleton and Knoll Health Forum at St Richard’s Church Hall, in Egmont Road, Hove, this morning (Wednesday 11 February).