BUDE Foodbank is continuing to support those in need through the Coronavirus pandemic, and is appealing for donations from the community.

Like many others, Bude Foodbank made the decision to close its doors to the public due to the outbreak of Coronavirus, while still allowing foodbank users to collect their parcels at the door.

But, at a time of need for all, the team at the foodbank are appealing for donations as they continue to work towards providing Bude’s population in need with essential food items and toiletries for the foreseeable future.

With people bulk-buying in the supermarkets and shelves becoming bare as we progress through the national emergency, this vital community service in Bude is needed now more than ever for some.

Bude Foodbank manager Sue Jarvis wanted to make it clear that the foodbank is still operating as normal, and told the Post: “We have closed our building to protect our volunteers as much as our clients. We are not doing anything differently and this is a protection measure.

“However, all foodbank users need to do now is phone up and make an appointment over the phone to come to the door where we will be able to distribute their food parcel.

“We are looking for all the help and all donations we can get now. We have fridges and freezers to keep food fresh. We knew this was going to happen, but we are most definitely open and running as normal.”

Sue added: “I am very proud of the Bude people and all they have done for us.”

Local business Wildwood, located on Lansdown Road, has been appealing to the public to make food donations at their drop-off point outside the shop when possible, to give a little helping hand to the foodbank during this time.

Lesley from Wildwood has expressed thanks to Bude residents who have been generous enough to donate towards the cause.

Lesley said: “We heard that the foodbank were running short of supplies and were having less donations than normal when their demand was going to be high. We contacted them last weekend to see if it would be of any help to them to have a collection point in Bude.”

The team at Wildwood set this collection point up on March 17 and, with the help of social media, they have received a great response.

Lesley added: “It has been very heartwarming. The community spirit in Bude is amazing. We even found that people had left donations on our doorstep overnight!”

Anyone eligible for Bude Foodbank’s services should phone 01288 488 748 or email [email protected] to arrange collection or delivery.