St Austell’s foodbank welcomed Polgooth’s Community and Garden Club who raised £150 to help stock their shelves ahead of the busy festive season.  

The money was raised when Cllr Michael Bunney gave a talk to the club about Cornish botanists and gardens, followed by a raffle at the festive light switch-on organised by the Polgooth Inn. 

The foodbank, which has been a lifeline within the local community since opening its doors in 2010, has seen a 20 per cent increase in demand for its emergency services this year.  

Staffed by manager Andy Payne and a 60-strong team of volunteers, the centre has already helped more than 5,000 locals in 2023, and the year’s not yet over.  

“We’re into the ‘heat or eat’ season, and those already struggling can find the festive period especially hard,” said Andy. 

“I think people know this can be a tough time of year, so it’s wonderful to welcome this kind of support.”  

St Austell’s foodbank is open four days a week and is located in the same building as the Light and Life centre. It provides an emergency bridge to food and other essentials for anyone who finds themselves going through a financially difficult time. 

Tomorrow, there’s a Chill and Chat session from 10am to noon, where anyone struggling can drop in for something warming to eat and connect with representatives from Cornwall Council, Community Energy Plus, Citizen’s Advice, South West Water, Helping Hands and the St Austell Healthcare social prescribing team.