‘This small act of kindness really can transform lives’ – manager Lois Swarbrick

The Sid Valley Food Bank is asking residents to carry out ‘small acts of kindness’ to help support families in crisis this Easter.

The church-run organisation is setting people the ‘40 for 40’ challenge and asking if they are prepared to give up 40 pence a day for the duration of Lent in a bid to boost funds and support vital work for those struggling to provide for themselves.

Manager Lois Swarbrick said: “We always need cash, particularly at this time of year when we are so busy. We give all of our clients fresh milk every week, which we have to buy. Because we rely on donations, we have little control over what and how much comes in, so when we run out of staples to go in food bags, we have no option but to purchase these. This ensures the food we give out is as useful and balanced as possible.

“Lent is traditionally a time of reflection, where people choose to give up something to mark the occasion. This Lent, we are asking people if they will give up 40 pence for the 40 days of Lent to help us continue to support our work in the Sid Valley for people in crisis.

“For some of us, 40 pence a day isn’t much to give up, it’s not even the price of a bar of chocolate these days, but this small act of kindness really can transform lives.”

To take part in the challenge, find an old jar or container and start collecting 40p per day. At the end of Lent, send a cheque payable to ‘Sid Valley Food Bank’ for the total or contact Lois on lois@sidvalleyfoodbank.org.uk or 07413 858335.