Salisbury Foodbank to become independent charity
It's happening to bring them in line with other sites across the country.
The Salisbury Foodbank, which has been part of the Trussell Trust network, will become an independent, fully funded charity from Sunday (1st November).
It means that it will function as an individual unit, with their own trustees and be able to develop it's services for the local community.
They'll be able to do all of this while under the supervision and expertise of the Trussell Trust.
The foodbank in the city was the first one that the Trussell Trust set up in 2000.
These changes now mean that it's now in line for with the 400+ other Trussell Trust food banks in the UK.
Maria Stevenson, Salisbury Foodbank project manager, said:
"Being defined as "Salisbury Foodbank" gives us our own identity apart from the Trussell Trust - people locally see us as being one and the same, but whereas the Trussell Trust is a national charity supporting food banks, we are local charity supporting local people. We use a network of local connections and support agencies to help people in their time of crisis.
The road ahead for us is very exciting as an independent charity - I'm supported by a fantastic board of Trustees who hold Salisbury and surrounding areas in their heart. As we approach a time of economic crisis and unemployment, we are well prepared to be here for anyone who needs us."
Maria to lead the team of more than 50 volunteers, while John Pitt-Brooke will become the Chairman of Trustees.
Mr Pitt-Brooke added:
"It is a privilege to be chairman of such a worthy and respected organisation. From the start the local food bank has been the leader in support provision, food management and care standards, and we intend to continue to maintain and improve what we have, and, if possible, make it even better."
SALISBURY SUCCESS STORY
The Trussell Trust was set up by Paddy and Carol Henderson after they heard about people in Salisbury unable to feed themselves.
Originally they had been trying to alleviate poverty in Bulgaria, and they decided to try and help people closer to home as well.
So they created the Salisbury Foodbank, which turned out to be a huge success.
It then grew across the country and is now the largest foodbank network in the UK.
Chief executive of the Trussell Trust Emma Revie said:
"Salisbury Foodbank is where the story of the Trussell Trust began and has grown immeasurably since those days. We know from our network of food banks that local communities understand the needs of their area best and so we know it is the right time to return Salisbury Foodbank to the hands of the local community.
We are committed to standing with food banks and people in poverty. As a member of the Trussell Trust network, Salisbury Foodbank will continue to work closely with us to campaign for a more just future where everyone can afford their own food."
The warehouse is based in Ashfield Trading Estate which is going to remain there, despite the changes.
Visit the Salisbury Foodbank website for all the details.