RHYL’S fourth foodbank service is set to open its doors this month.

About 20 Volunteers at the Sussex Street Christian Centre will begin providing emergency packages for individuals and families in urgent need of a short-term supply of food from Tuesday, September 10 at 10.30am.

The charity will operate as part of the 1,200 strong nationwide The Trussell Trust network - which operates services in Denbigh, Prestatyn and Abergele - and joins existing foodbanks in Rhyl including the King’s Storehouse on Vale Road, the Foryd Community Centre on Princes Street and at the ASK Centre of Water Street.

Rhyl Journal:

Project leader Rachel Round. Picture: Kerry Roberts

Project leader Rachel Round, of Prestatyn, said: “Although efforts are being made to improve the image of Rhyl through projects like The Rhyl Regeneration programme, there are still families in the area that are going hungry.

“Even though there are already foodbanks operating in the town, The Trussel Trust look deeply into where to open a foodbank so there is obviously demand for another one in the town, particularly an accessible service in West Rhyl.

“As Christians we recognise that we have a duty to care for those who find themselves in need of help and support. That help will be available to everyone irrespective of their beliefs or non-beliefs.”

According to the trust, of the many reasons why people find themselves in desperate need of assistance the primary referral causes in 2018-2019 were income not covering the cost of essentials at 33 percent, benefit delays at 20 percent and changes to support payments at 18 percent.

Referrals to the foodbank for those identified as people in need will be made through various partner agencies in the area such as Citizens Advice, The Benefit Advice Shop, Shelter Cymru and other front-line care professionals.

Mrs Round, who also works as ChildLine staff counsellor, added: “What sets us apart from other foodbanks is also want to tackle the emotional aspect of being in this situation. We recognise that ending hunger is about more than food.

“We will provide compassionate, practical support to people in crisis in order to tackle the root causes that lock them into poverty and build people’s resilience so they are less likely to need a food bank in the future.

“Where requested we will refer those in need of help to other partner agencies who can help with specific issues.”

Rhyl mayor cllr Ellie Chard said: “I am very pleased to welcome the foodbank and see all the effort being put into it, but in this day and age I am also deeply saddened that there remains a need for them.”

The foodbank will be open every Tuesday and Thursday from 10.30am until 1.30pm. To make a donation to the new foodbank, collection points are open at Rhyl Library and can also be left at the Christian Centre.