A COMMUNITY foodbank has opened a third site in Abbeydale to help more people in need.
Former Mayor of Redditch, Ann Isherwood alongside Coun Emma Marshall, officially launched the new site last Saturday and there was also a performance from SantaSax.
The shed is named ‘Russell’s Retreat’ in homage to Russell Button from RB External Cleaning Solutions who has funded the new food bank.
Last December Friends of Isaac’s Food Bank opened its second shed in Batchley, following on from its original site which was set up in December 2020 in Greenlands.
Now due to ever increasing demand, another food bank was officially opened at Abbeydale Community Club.
Two 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.
Recently, the foodbank has been forced to reduce opening hours due to incidents of people ransacking the stock.
Claire-Louise Chapman, Isaac’s mum said although the reduced opening hours have impacted the number of visitors, the demand is still overwhelming.
“All in all, we have given out nearly 2,000 food parcels this year so far.
“It’s just so sad to see the number of hardworking families that visit us.”
11-year-old Isaac is on track to open two more shed by the end of the summer.
He has also been nominated for a BBC Make a Difference award and is set to attend the final ceremony in September.
Claire added: “Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to support us and Isaac.
“We are so blessed to have such a wonderful community of supporters behind us.”
