Lauren

We love getting to know our Foodbank volunteers. Meet Lauren Broughton

I started volunteering at the St Margaret’s Community Church food bank a few weeks before Christmas right when the fantastic Team were gathering donations for Hampers of Hope. My children had started in year 7 at Priory and, just coming out of lockdown2, it felt to me as though the world was getting a little bit back to normal (famous last words). I had a few spare hours on my hands and I wanted to put them to good use.

To be a part of Hampers of Hope was fantastic, to see our wonderful community come together donating everyday essentials relied on by singles, couples and families each week and also stretching to some more indulgent treats – when budgets were getting tighter already – was humbling to see. I was one person in an army of volunteers that spread so much love and joy at Christmas, it made me take stock of what I have and my hold my family a little closer.

My regular shift at the food bank involves sorting and date checking food, bagging it up ready for collection. Though I am not customer facing, the good vibes filter back from the front door and I leave each week thinking, ‘oh my shift’s over already!’. I look forward to returning each week and working alongside friendly, compassionate people who have a genuine passion for helping in our community.