Foodbank thanks public for 'overwhelming' support after devastating break-in
The Oldham Foodbank was targeted overnight on the 7th January
Last updated 8th Jan 2019
Volunteers at an Oldham Foodbank say they have been overwhelmed by support from the local community after thieves ransacked their offices earlier this week.
The Oldham Foodbank was broken into overnight on 7th January and electrical devices including four tablets and a PC as well as cash were stolen.
Volunteers discovered the break-in on Monday morning when arriving to find the office had been ransacked and a window at the back, facing the police station had been removed.
The foodbank, which opened in 2012, is part of The Trussell Trust, a network of 428 foodbanks, whose aim is to tackle food poverty and hunger in local communities.
After the incident, the foodbank tweeted out and have since received an huge amount of support but say they are still in need of donations to be able to get their operations up and running again.
Donkeystone Brewing Company have tweeted that they will be donating 50p from every pint sold over the following weekend to the foodbank as well as holding a raffle and accepting food donations.
Dave Jones, who helps manage the foodbank, said:
“People need food and that’s what we are here to provide and whatever the odds we will fight against those odds to make sure that we do deliver that service too people.
“The incidents of people requiring support from the food bank is increasing week on week and the demand never diminishes it just seems to grow.”
The foodbank has already re-opened less than 48 hours after the break in to ensure that people in Oldham who are in need of their help are not struggling and show that they will not be beaten.
Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they are investigating the incident and enquiries are ongoing.
To donate to the Foodbank crowdfunding appeal, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/oldham-foodbank-break-in