Some of our volunteers pictured
The Lord's Larder is an independent Christian charity dedicated to the service of those in Newent and the surrounding areas who need short-term access to basic food and toiletries. What we are able to share with those in need comes from donations from across our town and surrounding villages. All those who find themselves unable to feed themselves or their families are eligible for this short-term help.
The Lord’s Larder, which is run and maintained entirely by volunteers, opened in 2010 and was founded by St Mary’s Church, Newent, with the support of other churches within our Benefice and in the town of Newent. We remain grateful for the prayerful and practical support still offered by these church communities. We also work with agencies both national and within the county, to help us provide the support and help where there is a genuine need.
The Larder itself is situated discreetly in Newent (and managed by a board of volunteer trustees) and we are fortunate to have a few Collection Points throughout the area, where donations of food and toiletries are generously made on a regular basis, and we hope to continue increasing our ability to give in line with the donations we gratefully receive. It is only with help from individuals in the Forest of Dean, Newent itself, Leadon Vale and the West of Severn areas that we can continue our work, we ask that you consider supporting us in this effort.
Thank you for reading.
How the System Works
The Lord's Larder Food Bank aims to target aid where there is a genuine need, however, our supply of donations is limited.
Our volunteers are not trained to suitably assess the needs of members of the community for allergies.
Clients do not need to obtain a voucher in advance of their visit to the food bank during our opening hours. They will be met by one of our experienced volunteers who will record the visit. An agency referral is required after 6 visits.
Our partner agencies issue authority to us by email or telephone and where appropriate to the client that we can distribute to those in need. Intervention is usually short term, normally three to four vouchers at most. In doing this, Professional agencies are given time to put more long-term solutions in place for the client.
Once those in need of help have received an agency authority voucher, they need to visit the Larder in Newent. On presentation of their agency authorisation voucher, suitable tinned and dried goods or toiletries all as donated will be provided to them by our volunteers.
Please note our volunteer representatives are not able or trained on allergy suitability of food dispensed this lies with the client.
Volunteer with us
Whether it’s just every now and then or on a regular basis, your time and efforts help us to do what we do and help others. Sign up to help us make meaningful change in the community.
A few of our supporters and donors
Make a Donation
Every act of generosity, big or small, helps us do what we do and build a world that reflects our shared values.
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One of our local volunteer contacts have agreed to evaluate and action any requests they locally receive for help without reference to the Lord's Larder. They maintain a small stock of Emergency Packs to distribute and when they have used these, the Larder replaces them.
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As the Lord's Larder has only a limited amount of supplies, we are conscious of the need to target resources where they will be of most use. In order to do this, we have worked with our partners to define certain criteria which prospective clients must meet. Vouchers or Emergency Packs can be issued to:
Persons who have recently lost their job and are not yet in receipt of state benefits.
Homes where an unforeseen expenditure (such as a large electrical bill) means no money is left for food.
The vulnerable who cannot afford to 'Heat' and 'Eat' (such as elderly persons).
Families where children will otherwise go hungry.
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If you believe you are eligible for our Vouchers or Emergency Packs or wish to get some advice and support, please contact your nearest agency.
Two Rivers Housing, Cleve Mill Lane , Newent (Emergency Packs)
Point of Contact (0800 316 0897)
The Citizens Advice Centre, Newent
Newent Citizen's Advice Centre, The Library, Newent, Gloucestershire, GL18 1AS.
Point of Contact: Staff, (Tuesdays & Thursdays 10.00am - 12.30pm)
CAP (Christians against poverty)
Social Prescribers (Supported by Doctors practice in Holts Road.)
Point of contact molly.barton@nhs.net
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Roger Beard BEM - Trust Chairman; with operational responsibilities
Rev Cn Simon Mason - Trust meetings chairman.
Shirley Howard - Treasurer.
Carol Gooch - Meetings secretary, Keyholder & Volunteer.
Martin Draper MRICS - Building and property management.
Rev Mark Dunning - Safeguarding officer.