A Huddersfield food bank facing unprecedented demand received a Christmas cash boost from First4Lawyers.
For the fourth year running, the business donated £1,000 to The Welcome Centre as well as dozens of food items collected by colleagues in a ‘reverse advent calendar.’
As the UK’s largest independent food bank, The Welcome Centre hands out thousands of crisis packs every year to individuals and families in the local area who have fallen into food poverty.
Recent research reveals that 98% of food banks are currently helping people seeking support for the first time, making donations from businesses like First4Lawyers more important than ever.
Emma Greenough, fundraising manager at The Welcome Centre, said: “As the cost-of-living crisis continues, more and more people who have never needed to rely on charity before are finding themselves forced to use food banks just to survive.
“£20 is a week’s worth of meals for one person, £50 feeds a small family for a week. Every penny counts and the ongoing support of businesses like First4Lawyers is invaluable.”
The Welcome Centre helps those referred by their GP, social worker or other agency and crisis packs are tailored to meet individuals’ needs. Alongside food, toiletries and essential items, it also offers emotional and practical support, such as advice on budgeting, applying for grants and access to computers.
Qamar Anwar is managing director of First4Lawyers, on Dundas Street, Huddersfield, which celebrated its 15th anniversary last year. To date, the firm has donated almost £5,000 plus food collections to the charity.
“While we are a national brand, Huddersfield is our home and the home of many of our people,” he said.
“The Welcome Centre does incredible work for those who are struggling in our local community, and we are proud to offer them our continuing support.”
For more information about The Welcome Centre, including how you can donate, call 01484 515086 during office hours or visit thewelcomecentre.org.
