Eastleigh Basics Bank is busier than ever – there are often people waiting outside for it to open when I arrive at around 10.00 am with our donations from Chandler’s Ford.
Shop manager Dave Keating has recently had surgery, so the shop is currently staffed by Denise and Dom from Chandler’s Ford Methodist church, together with a team of volunteers.
The volunteers operate in a very cramped space, sorting the donations and putting together packs for people to take away.
The five-year lease on the premises is being finalised and ten churches have been asked to pledge to support the rent by donating £200 per church per year for five years. Rev Ian Bird from the parish church of Chandler’s Ford has signed our pledge on behalf of the Parochial Church Council (PCC) and we have paid our contribution.
At the moment, Eastleigh Basics Bank works under the auspices of Zion Projects, but it will soon have its own bank account, which will simplify financial transactions. As soon as the lease legalities have been completed, it is planned to carry out a refurbishment of the premises, including enlarging the storing and sorting area, redecoration and provision of suitable furniture.
Eastleigh Borough Council has awarded a grant towards this work (but more funds will be needed) and the help of local businesses is being sought to carry out the refurbishment.
Security of permanent premises
Eastleigh Basics Bank has had a nomadic history, working out of three different bases in three years. The security of permanent premises means that it will be easier to attract funds from public and private bodies. Referral agencies can refer people without having to make a phone call to check where Eastleigh Basics Bank is currently located, and people holding those yellow slips will know where to go.
Thanks to generous donations, currently Eastleigh Basics Bank has good stocks of tea, pasta and baked beans, but all other items are urgently needed, so please keep them coming!
In addition to the food items on the shopping lists, donations of washing up liquid, laundry liquid, shampoo, shower gel and pet food are also welcome.
Thank you to everyone who supports Eastleigh Basics Bank with donations of food, toiletries and cash. The goods I take down from our churches every week usually fill a supermarket shopping trolley. This year, the proceeds of the Lent Lunches will go to Easleigh Basics Bank, so please give these your support.
Eastleigh Basics Bank
“Practically supporting individuals and families in financial crisis”
The Oasis Centre (opposite McDonalds), Unit G1, Wells Place, Eastleigh, SO50 5PP.
Open: 10am – 3pm Tuesdays and Thursdays
Telephone: 07563 609 994
Website: Eastleigh Basics Bank
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