A COMMUNITY foodbank has opened a fifth site in Church Hill to help more people in need.
The latest shed from Friends of Isaac’s Food Bank is being supported by Tim Jarvis from TJS Security Systems and former Mayor of Redditch, Ann Isherwood.
Last year Friends of Isaac’s Food Bank opened three foodbanks in Abbeydale, Batchley and Moons Moat.
Now due to increasing demand, another food bank was officially opened at YMCA Worcestershire Willow Trees car park.
Three years ago, youngster Isaac decided he wanted to set up his own foodbank alongside his mum Claire-Louise Chapman to help people during the pandemic.
The service, which offers food and other types of support to local people in need, helps between 160 and 170 families a week.
Tim Jarvis has previously installed security systems at the foodbank sites, but this time has helped build the shed, volunteering his time throughout.
Chairman of Redditch United David Faulkner opened the foodbank, which is named Ann’s Annex, after former borough mayor Ann.
Claire-Louise thanked everyone in the community for their help.
She said: “Where December went I do not know, but somehow Isaac managed to open a fifth food bank, hand out hundreds of Christmas gifts to struggling families and meet with more businesses than I can count.
“Thanks must go to Ann Isherwood for accepting the dedication of the site in her name with her usual grace and just a few tears.”
The year was not without difficulty, as the sheds were ransacked four times throughout 2023.
It forced Claire-Louise to reduce the opening hours and eventually make the service appointment only.
But the team is remaining positive, and looking forward to 2024.
“Isaac marked the handing out of his 5000th food parcel of the year, showing what can be achieved when we all work together.
“And without the people of Redditch, who have supported or donated, Isaac would not be winning the fight against food insecurity in Redditch, one shed at a time.”
