Here’s how we operate:
Where do food banks get their food?
Food banks rely on community generosity and strategic partnerships. Schools, churches, and businesses donate non-perishable items, while supermarket collection points during events like Harvest Festival amplify contributions. In 2023–2024, 20% of our stock was purchased to meet rising demand, ensuring no one goes without essentials. We also partner with Tesco and Asda for bulk donations, supplemented by targeted fresh food initiatives like onions, garlic, and cheese at select outlets.
Preparing nutritionally balanced support
Over 250 volunteers sort donations, check expiry dates, and pack three-day emergency parcels tailored to dietary and cultural needs. In 2024, we distributed 139 tonnes of food, including fresh items, and introduced recipe cards to help clients create affordable meals. Our volunteer van teams collect and distribute stock across nine community outlets, with plans to expand fresh food access to all locations.
How to access emergency food vouchers
To receive a food parcel, individuals need a voucher issued by a referral partner. These partners include:
- Citizens Advice advisors (our most frequent referrers)
- Social workers, GPs, and health visitors
- Schools and family support teams
- Local housing associations
Visit our how to get help page for a list of referrers you can go to.
All vouchers are now electronic, simplifying the process for both referrers and clients. Partners assess need and issue vouchers directly via our secure system. Clients then receive an SMS inviting them to come to colect a food parcel at one of our nine outlets.
What happens during a food bank visit?
When someone arrives at an outlet, volunteers greet them warmly, review their voucher, and discuss household needs, allergies, or preferences (e.g., halal or gluten-free options). Parcels are packed in real-time at most locations, balancing speed and personalisation.
Volunteers offer hot drinks and a private space to talk, providing a listening ear and signposting to long-term solutions. Several of our outlets host Citizens Advice advisors, who helped clients secure £139,268 in additional income last year through benefit corrections and grants. Our centres are evolving into community hubs, partnering with initiatives like The Bridge Food Project to offer budgeting help, workshops and discounted food, fostering connections beyond immediate crisis support.
Watch Dave’s Story: How Food Banks Work:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a food bank parcel last?
Each parcel provides three days’ nutritionally balanced meals, designed to meet diverse dietary needs. Fresh items like bread and vegetables are included where available.
Can food banks help with baby supplies?
Yes – we provide nappies, baby food, and hygiene products. We cannot supply baby formula due to safety regulations, but we signpost families to local support services.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
We prioritise culturally appropriate and allergy-friendly options. Clients can specify needs when redeeming vouchers, and our volunteers ensure parcels align with these requirements.
How do I volunteer or donate?
See our volunteering page to join 270 local volunteers, or organise a food drive. Financial donations help us purchase fresh items and fund financial inclusion advisors.
Why has demand increased?
The cost-of-living crisis and inadequate social security drove an 8% rise in emergency food parcels distributed—from 14,858 in 2023 to 16,111 in 2024. 65% of these parcels supported families with children. This reflects growing pressures on household budgets, with parents often skipping meals to feed their children amidst rising food and energy costs.
How food bank vouchers work
Learn how local agencies assess your needs and provide food bank vouchers to access emergency food support.
Visiting a foodbank
Experience a warm welcome from our volunteers who will listen to your needs and prepare your personalised emergency food parcel.
What's in a food parcel?
Nutritionally balanced emergency food parcels providing three days of essential meals for individuals and families in crisis.
About our food bank
Learn about our food bank’s journey, partnerships, and initiatives to combat hunger across North Bristol and South Gloucestershire.