Foodbank benefits from £25,000 council funding
Andover Foodbank will now be able to support more people in need after receiving thousands of pounds from Test Valley Borough Council.
Councillors from Andover wards selected the foodbank as part of the Council’s Community Asset Fund, awarding it £25,000.
That funding will help the foodbank to increase its storage capacity, and in turn be able to meet the needs of more residents through its new enlarged warehouse.
Councillors Christopher Lynn and Sandra Hawke presented the cheque to the foodbank’s community manager, Jenny LeLean, with other community leaders also attending the opening.
Winton councillor Christopher Lynn, said: “The amount that Andover Foodbank contributes to the community is immeasurable. All of us at Test Valley Borough Council hope that these funds, and the extra storage space, help the foodbank to reach more in need of this fantastic and dedicated service.
“It was brilliant to be able to see the work that the foodbank does across Andover and even further afield when presenting the funds to Jenny.”
Community manager at Andover Foodbank, Jenny LeLean, said they were hugely grateful for the funds which meant they could extend their project even further.
Jenny said: “To be in receipt of this incredible amount of money is amazing. Everyone is hugely grateful for this boost in funding which has enabled us to increase our storage with a wonderful warehouse.
“As winter approaches, it is vital we are able to reach those who rely on us, and this now means we can extend and sustain the work that we do.
“Being able to show other members of the council around and give them an insight into the amount of work that goes on was a great opportunity for us.”
Mayor councillor Ian Carr and Mayoress of Test Valley, Beryl Carr, also attended the opening alongside Mayor of Andover, Barbara Long and councillors Sandra Hawke and Christopher Lynn. Chairman of Andover Foodbank, Jamie Symington, also attended, with Angela Kemp of Citizens Advice Bureau and High Sheriff of Hampshire, Mark Thistlewayte.
Organisations around Test Valley, such as voluntary groups or schools, can apply to the Community Asset Fund for a grant of up to £25,000.