Ovenu Solihull responds to food bank appeal before Christmas surge

Elliott Robinson of oven cleaning service Ovenu Solihull was one of the first to respond to an appeal from local food bank Community Essentials, which almost closed last year after its resources were drained by rocketing fuel bills and operating costs.

The volunteer-run organisation is already experiencing a 50% increase in demand for its emergency food parcels, and currently supplies 100 to 120 food parcels a week across Solihull and south Birmingham and expects that demand to rise in the run-up to Christmas.

As a result, it has again appealed for help from local businesses and individuals for both financial donations and foodstuffs.

One of the first to respond was Ovenu franchisee Elliott, who has donated 60 Christmas selection boxes and chocolate advent calendars.

Last year he handed over several bags of tinned and dried goods donated by his clients and decided this year to buy the festive treats for the children of food parcel recipients.

“This is an organisation run by volunteers that is dedicated to providing a lifeline to those who fall into food poverty. I hope my donations can bring a little joy to children this Christmas and that other individuals and businesses will also support the invaluable work of Community Essentials.”

Stephen Palmer, founder of Community Essentials, said: “Last year we experienced a 100% increase in demand for our food parcels and this year that has gone up by another 50%. Sadly, I expect that figure will rise even further in the run-up to Christmas.”

Last October, the food bank, which has annual running costs of between £15,000 and £20,000, was down to its last £600 until well-wishers rallied round.