Lisa Parkinson has been volunteering for the Big Food Project in Blackpool for three-and-a-half years. She started her involvement after using the food bank herself during a challenging period in her life, specifically after being diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in the Covid-19 pandemic. Parkinson’s husband left his job to care for her, and the family faced difficulties, particularly with their children unable to attend school clubs due to isolation.
The Big Food Project redistributes surplus food from supermarkets and manufacturers to 125 food banks, schools, community kitchens, and crisis services across Blackpool, Fylde, and Wyre. In the previous week, the project provided around 17,600 meals. Parkinson regularly volunteers at a food bank located at Blackpool FC, where approximately 50 to 60 families receive assistance each week.
Initially hesitant about using the food bank due to concerns about judgment, Parkinson was welcomed when she visited as a food bank user. She found the service beneficial, noting that for a payment of £8, users received more food than they would typically acquire at the supermarket.
Despite being cancer-free for five years, Parkinson expressed concern for individuals struggling to afford food, including those with full-time jobs and pensioners. Many clients express relief and gratitude for the assistance, with some even commenting that they can’t justify purchasing basic items like tea bags. Parkinson described her experiences with the project as supportive during a difficult time, highlighting its role in helping her family recover.
Through her volunteering efforts, she aims to give back to the community that assisted her, stating it feels rewarding to provide support to others who might be in similar situations.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0exv9y9zeqo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss