News

After 17 years of dedicated service to the community, The Okehampton Food Bank has officially become an independent charity registered with the Charity Commission of England and Wales.

This significant milestone enables the organisation to enhance its operations, secure more funding, and strengthen its support for individuals and families facing food insecurity in Okehampton.

Since its inception, the food bank has provided emergency food assistance to those in need. By registering as a charity, The Okehampton Food Bank now operates with greater autonomy, allowing it to expand services and secure long-term sustainability.

Benefits of Charitable Status

Registering as a charity brings several advantages that will help Okehampton Food Bank grow and better serve the local community. These benefits include:

Access to More Funding – As an independent charity, Okehampton Food Bank can now apply for grants, receive donations from larger funding bodies, and secure financial support previously unavailable to non-charitable organisations.

Increased Public Trust – Official charitable status reassures donors and the public that the organisation operates transparently and remains accountable for the use of funds and resources.

Gift Aid Eligibility – Claiming Gift Aid on donations allows every pound donated by UK taxpayers to increase by 25%, providing additional financial support at no extra cost to the donor. Donors can download Gift Aid forms from the website.

Stronger Partnerships – Gaining charitable status facilitates better collaboration with local businesses, other charities, and governmental bodies, helping to secure food supplies and additional resources to support those struggling with daily living costs.

Greater Long-Term Stability – With formal governance structures in place, the food bank can confidently plan for the future and continue assisting those who rely on its services.

A Community-Driven Initiative

Local volunteers, trustees, and donors played a crucial role in supporting the food bank’s transition to charitable status by contributing their time and resources.

Operating from the Ockment Centre in North Street, the food bank remains committed to providing emergency food five days a week to ensure that no one in the community goes hungry.

Okehampton’s strong community spirit has driven this journey to independence, demonstrating a collective effort to tackle food insecurity and support vulnerable individuals. With its new status, the food bank now stands in a stronger position to make a lasting impact and continue its vital work for years to come.

None of this would have been possible without the generous support of donors, who consistently go the extra mile to ensure the food bank can assist those in need.

Recent data from the Trussell Trust reveals that more than 3.1 million emergency food parcels were distributed by food banks from April 2023 to March 2024, marking an unprecedented high.

Unfortunately, food banks have become a crucial component of the social safety net in the UK. An increasing number of individuals are depending on these services, but this rise merely scratches the surface of the underlying issues that leave many unable to provide adequate meals for themselves and their families. The situation in Okehampton reflects this broader trend.

About food banks

Food banks thrive on the dedication of volunteers and the kindness of donations from individuals, businesses, and various organisations. Many people turn to food banks during challenging times when their budgets cannot accommodate food expenses.

This situation often arises from job loss, unforeseen bills, or health challenges. In addition to addressing immediate food needs, food banks highlight deeper societal issues such as poverty, inadequate wages, and insufficient benefits, which can hinder families and individuals from making ends meet.

The escalating cost of living is intensifying the strain on food banks, as an increasing number of people find it difficult to manage essential costs. There are numerous food banks throughout the nation, with many operating independently.

Food bank referrals triple

Since 2020, the referrals we receive for assistance have increased more than threefold. All our referrals are from outside charities. The upward trend started in December 2023, reaching its highest point in March 2024. We are experiencing a surge in referrals during the winter months, as financial strains intensify due to elevated energy costs.

Why us the food bank?

Individuals seek our assistance for a variety of common challenges, primarily stemming from low income, cuts to benefits, and mounting debt. These issues are often interconnected, with financial strain leading to increased debt levels. The most frequent concerns we encounter revolve around benefits, housing, and debt-related problems.

Recently, we have observed that a significant portion of those we assist are unable to work due to health issues, followed by the unemployed and then those who are still in the workforce, including seniors. The escalating cost of living is impacting a broader range of individuals, even those who are employed, making it increasingly difficult for them to manage essential expenses within their limited income. 

Will the demand for food banks decrease in 2025

Numerous news reports have pointed out a decline in inflation in the first month of the year, leading to optimism that this could indicate a resolution to the cost-of-living crisis. Nevertheless, a decrease in the inflation rate does not equate to falling prices; rather, prices are still rising, albeit at a slower pace. Inflation has increased to 4% since the 1st of January.

The real end to this crisis will only come when prices level off and wages or social security benefits rise sufficiently to match the cost of living. Regrettably, this situation has yet to materialize, and the demand for food banks is expected to persist throughout the UK, including in Okehampton. 

Helping the Food Bank.

Community Links presence at the food bank is strategic in addressing some of the root causes of food bank use and accessing a range of services and support for families and individuals in Devon and the South West.

We are also blessed to have Citizens Advice as neighbours and the presence of these two helpful charities in the Ockment Centre working closely with the food bank is a wonderful resource for the families we serve.

You can support us by helping a family today. Every gift helps.

A Fresh Start for One Okehampton Man.

Last week, the Okehampton Food Bank witnessed an inspiring moment that highlights the power of community support. A man who had relied on the food bank for some time walked into the hall—not with desperation, but with a beaming smile.

His exciting news? He had just found a job!

For months, he had struggled to make ends meet. The Okehampton Food Bank became his lifeline, providing essential food support, encouragement, and kindness. Volunteers welcomed him every week with warmth and understanding, never with judgment. But last week, he returned—not to seek help, but to share his victory.

“This place helped me keep going,” he said, smiling. “Now, I finally feel like I’m getting back on my feet.”

His new job represents a fresh start—not just financially, but emotionally. It’s a step toward regaining independence and stability, with hopes of giving back to the same food bank that supported him during difficult times.

For the Okehampton Food Bank volunteers, his success story serves as a powerful reminder of their mission:
“This is what it’s all about—helping people through their struggles so they can find hope again.”

The Impact of Food Banks on Local Communities

Food banks like The Okehampton Food Bank do more than provide meals—they offer hope, dignity, and a path to a better future. This heartwarming story is proof that community support can change lives, one person at a time.

How You Can Help: Donate or Volunteer

The need for food banks is greater than ever. Every week, families and individuals in Okehampton rely on food support to get through tough times. You can make a difference:

✅ Donate food or essentials – Every item counts! Non-perishable foods, toiletries, and baby supplies are always in demand and can be left in our collection basket in Waitrose.
✅ Make a financial contribution – Even a small donation helps keep the food bank stocked and running.
✅ Volunteer your time – Join the dedicated team helping those in need. Whether sorting food, distributing supplies, or offering support, your help is invaluable.

Together, we can ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.