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FAQs
Here are answers to frequently asked questions:
How does my organisation make a referral to the foodbank?
Thurrock foodbank works with a range of local agencies who meet people at risk of going hungry. Citizens Advice, local health providers and other community groups and charities are just some of those who can refer people to our foodbank by issuing them with a foodbank voucher. If you think that your organisation could help people by referring them to our foodbank, please get in touch with us to discuss becoming a registered voucher holder.
Where is my nearest foodbank centre?
Please go to the locations page to find the address and opening times of each of our foodbank centres. Please note you must have a foodbank voucher to receive help from the foodbank. If you don’t have a voucher please contact one of our Walk in Voucher Givers or contact us to find out how to get a voucher.
What’s in a typical food parcel?
A typical food parcel contains a minimum of three days of nutritionally balanced, non-perishable, tinned and dried foods that have been donated by the local community. A typical food parcel includes: breakfast cereal, soup, pasta, rice, pasta sauce, baked beans, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, instant mash, UHT milk, tea, coffee, tinned dessert and biscuits.
Can the parcel be adapted to special dietary requirements?
Our foodbank centres can usually adapt your food parcel to suit your dietary needs. Just let them know when you arrive with your voucher. We can provide specific parcels for a range of needs including people with diabetes, gluten intolerance, vegetarians and halal. We will also endeavour to adapt your parcel to accommodate any food allergies you indicate.
Will the food parcel cater for my whole family?
Our foodbank centres will adapt your food parcel according to the number of adults and children indicated on your voucher. They will also endeavour to provide foods that are age appropriate and in suitable quantities for your children. We can sometimes offer baby foods, but not SMA milk.
I have a baby, can you help with supplies of nappies and baby food?
Our foodbank usually carries a small stock of nappies and baby foods, which we can add to your parcel. Please let the foodbank know when you arrive if you need additional items for your baby. Where possible we will also let you know about other local services that can offer further support. Our foodbank centres also try to hold a small number of women’s sanitary products. If you need help with these things, please ask us when you come in to exchange your foodbank voucher.
What if I can’t get to the foodbank centre?
Our foodbank centres may be able to deliver your food parcel to your home, especially if you have mobility needs or are unwell. Please discuss this with the agency that refers you and get in touch with the foodbank directly to discuss this.