After supporting the foodbank for an extended 18 months, yesterday was the last day that Richard from Bungard Funeral Directors helped as a volunteer and presented Anna Bromwich, the Food Bank coordinator with a cheque for £750.

The food bank is an independently run Foodbank, with a management committee made up of volunteers from two local churches.

Their aim is to help individuals and families who are in urgent need, access short term support – in terms of food, but also money advice, energy advice and community support.

Clients must be referred to the Foodbank by a professional organisation, for example a Health Visitor, Social Worker, Housing Officer or Advice agency.

Clients are offered the opportunity to obtain money advice from Moneyadviceplus, and energy advice from BHESCo.  The mental health charity MIND visit the Foodbank once a month to offer support and advice.

The cheque was presented by Richard Whittle of Bungard Funeral Directors, Brighton & Hove’s oldest independent family funeral directors.  The business was founded in 1906 by Richard’s great, great grandfather and has become a cornerstone of Hove for over 110 years.

Richard was delighted that they were able to raise so much money. “We have really enjoyed supporting and volunteering at the Food Bank and even extended the support for a further six months. Yesterday was particularly moving because there were so many people in need but also a huge number of donations being brought in from those wanting to help people have the best possible Christmas. We will definitely remain a friend of the Foodbank and continue to support them.”

To find out more about them please go to http://www.hangletonfoodbank.org/