Yarmouth area foodbank expands local support 

The Yarmouth and Magdalen Foodbank has evolved into two separate foodbanks, each rooted more deeply in their local communities.

The new organisations will be known as Great Yarmouth Foodbank (run by Great Yarmouth Pathway) and Gorleston Foodbank (run by St Mary Magdalene Church), both charities operating in partnership with the Trussell Trust, the national foodbank network.
 
This change will allow each foodbank to take on greater local responsibility, strengthen links with neighbourhoods, and build closer relationships with volunteers, donors, and those in need of support. While day-to-day operations for people accessing emergency food will remain largely unchanged, the new structure will enhance decision-making and community engagement at a local level.
 
Last year, the foodbanks together distributed 4,803 food parcels, including 1,470 for children. The most common reason for referral was the rising cost of essentials, but other causes included domestic abuse, unemployment, housing issues, benefits delays, health conditions and disabilities. In addition, 23% of recipients received advice and signposting, including debt, budgeting and benefits support through a partnership with Great Yarmouth Dial.
 
Jen King, Manager of Great Yarmouth Pathway, said, “This development is about strengthening our local ownership and accountability. The needs in Great Yarmouth and surrounding areas are real and urgent, and this change will help us continue to meet those needs more effectively.”
 
Anna Price, Community Lead at St Mary Magdalene Church, added: “Our vision is not just to provide food in a crisis, but to walk alongside people, offer support, and work towards a community where no one goes hungry. By rooting ourselves more locally, we hope to grow stronger partnerships and transform lives.”
 
Great Yarmouth Foodbank will continue to serve NR30 postcodes and Cobholm, whilst Gorleston Foodbank will serve NR31 postcodes of Gorleston, Southtown, Bradwell and Hopton.
 
Food donations will continue to be received at existing collection points, with deliveries directed to the relevant local foodbank storage units. Financial donations can be made online via the “Give A Little” platforms of each foodbank’s website. Both centres would also be delighted to welcome new volunteers to help with food distribution, transport, communications, fundraising, and support services.
 
For more information, or to get involved:
Great Yarmouth Foodbank: Contact Jennifer King on 01493 543051 or at jenk.pathwaygy@gmail.com
Gorleston Foodbank: Contact Anna Price on 01493 655523 or at info@gorleston.foodbank.org.uk
 
Visit:    greatyarmouth.foodbank.org.uk       gorleston.foodbank.org.uk
 
The photo above shows Lucy volunteering at Gorleston Foodbank, and is courtesy of St Mary Magdalene Church.

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