More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
A charity is hoping to take its foodbank on the road to help even more families in need.
Hive Hope, based in Northfleet, wants to buy and kit out a large van so it can offer a mobile foodbank in addition to its existing service at St Botolph's Church hall.
It is already helping about 80 people a week, but wants to reach even more, and give recipients the chance to choose what they need rather than ready-made bags.
Trustee Deborah Keys said: "We are feeding, on average, 80 people each week in the two hours we are open at St Botolph's.
"We are also supplying food to schools who are supporting families directly and we know there are many more people who can’t get to a foodbank or are reluctant to ask for help.
"By taking our foodbank to different locations, we can help more people. The idea is that people can choose their own free food rather than being given a handout, restoring some dignity."
The charity will be raising money through a JustGiving page as a suitable van will cost about £15,000 to buy and fit out.
Hive Hope will also need to find a way to pay for the van's insurance, tax, servicing, fuel, stock and advertising.
Deborah added: "We have set a £20,000 target to be able to cover all these expenses.
"This is still cheaper than renting a fixed premises and we hope it will enable us to reach more people."
So far £2,400 has been raised. If you would like to support the appeal you can donate through the JustGiving page here.
