Behind every decision that shapes our work is a group of trustees who give their time, experience and judgement to guide North Bristol & South Glos Foodbank. They help make sure we stay focused on our mission, use our resources responsibly, and keep asking the hard questions about how we support people facing hunger locally. In this series, we’re introducing you to the people behind that role. Each trustee brings their own story, perspective and reasons for getting involved, but they share the same commitment: that nobody in our community should have to face hunger alone.
In this second post in the series, we meet Chris, a town planner whose work spans renewable energy, residential development and agricultural projects across England and Wales. Chris has been part of the North Bristol & South Glos Foodbank community since its very beginning in 2012, volunteering across outlets, the warehouse and supermarket collections before taking on his trustee role.
Q: What made you say yes to becoming a trustee?
A: I like the thought of helping the Foodbank out in the way that I can. Having been involved since it began in 2012, I've seen the kind of support that we give to those in food poverty. Becoming a trustee is a good opportunity to give available time to help in a new way!
A verse from Isaiah came to mind when I was considering whether to become a trustee: "You will keep in perfect peace, those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you." That trust — that God will provide what the Foodbank needs — is part of what keeps me committed.
Q: What do you wish more people understood about why someone might need a food bank?
A: Everyone needs a helping hand sometimes and it can change in the blink of an eye.
Q: What does a trustee do here, in plain English?
A: Volunteer to help staff and volunteers of NBSG Foodbank support the people who need it most and respond to food poverty. In my personal capacity, I take minutes of trustee meetings as a record of key decisions in a secretarial style role.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about volunteering but not sure they'd fit in?
A: Give it a go! Do it scared. Volunteer in either the outlets, the warehouse or a supermarket collection. You could make someone's life better by being there. Start with a small step!
Q: We provide emergency food, but we also want to reduce the need for food banks. What does that look like to you?
A: Helping people who come to us to gain access to the support that they need by getting to the core issues behind the need for a food bank. Striving to see a world without food banks!
Q: When supporters read this, what do you hope stays with them?
A: Thank you for supporting the Foodbank. Every bit helps, and you are doing an incredible thing by giving your time, food or money to support the Foodbank.
