Valda Energy’s Contribution to Bicester Foodbank’s Harvest

This October, we have been busy collecting donations for our local Foodbank in Bicester, supporting their annual Harvest Appeal. The initiative helps local people in crisis by collecting tinned items and dried food to support the community during the colder months. 

Throughout the month, our employees gathered a variety of canned goods as well as multiple jars of instant coffee, tea, long-life milk, biscuits and various other snacks, which were donated in the first week of November.

Bicester Foodbank is part of a nationwide network of foodbanks, supported by The Trussell Trust, working to fight poverty and hunger across the UK by gathering food supplies and partnering with local agencies who identify those most in need, referring them to the foodbank and issuing food vouchers to be redeemed at any local foodbank.

Located within the town centre, the Bicester Foodbank is surrounded by many businesses and establishments which regularly support to the appeal. The organisation consists of a volunteer team of around 30 people who work in shifts to make a real difference in the local community. Their aim is to gather donations of emergency food supplies from local churches, schools, businesses and the general public, and then prepare 3-day provisions of nutritionally balanced meals for individuals and families to collect using their food vouchers. As well as supporting people with food, the foodbank also provides a safe space for those in need to warm-up with a cup of tea and the chance for a chat with local support workers, who can then refer them to other agencies for further support if needed.

Agnes Szucs, Business Change Analyst at Valda, volunteered at Bicester Foodbank and had raised awareness for the initiative, which Valda supports wholeheartedly.

"Volunteering at Bicester Foodbank has been a really humbling but fulfilling experience. The other volunteers and people coming to the foodbank have always been really friendly and I'm glad to have been a part of supporting the local people, both by volunteering and introducing the Harvest Appeal to Valda.”

Introducing Bicester Foodbank’s appeal to Valda’s employees has had an impact on the team, and with many members living locally, it has highlighted the importance of giving back to the community, especially in times of need.

Whether you find yourself facing hardships this winter, looking for a volunteer activity or have the means to contribute to the organisation with donations, Bicester Foodbank and any other foodbank local to you always have their doors open and would very much appreciate your support this winter.