We know that anyone can reach crisis point and we’re here to help when that happens. If you need help from our foodbank there are a few simple steps to follow.
Our foodbank works using a voucher referral system.
We are now funding a freephone line at Watford Citizens Advice for clients who need a foodbank voucher. The number is 0800 061 4808. Calls will be picked up Monday – Friday, 10am – midday. If you call outside of these hours, please leave a message and a member of the team will get back to you!
To find out more about the other agencies that hold our vouchers and how you can get help, please contact us.
When you visit a referral agency, they will take some basic details from you to complete the voucher. This will help them to identify the cause of your crisis and offer practical guidance. It also means we are able to prepare suitable emergency food for the right number of people.
Once you have been issued with a voucher, you can exchange this for a minimum of three days of emergency food.
If you are a referral agency and would like to become a registered voucher holder for our foodbank, please contact us to find out more.
“The volunteers at the foodbank were so lovely, they listened to me and made me feel human again. It was the first place I didn’t feel judged.”
We know that crisis can strike anyone and we also understand how difficult it can be to think about walking through a foodbank door. That’s why our foodbank volunteers aim to welcome everyone who comes to the foodbank with compassion, kindness and a listening ear.
MEETING YOUR NEEDS
Your foodbank voucher will be exchanged for three days of emergency food. We want to make sure that we give you the right food to meet your needs, so please do let our volunteers know if you have any special dietary requirements or allergies, for example, gluten free, halal or vegetarian.
PREPARING YOUR FOOD
Whilst your food parcel is being prepared, a volunteer will offer you a warm drink and a biscuit. They will also be available if you would like to have a chat. Your food parcel will be packed into supermarket carrier bags. If you prefer to bring your own bags those can be used instead.
PRACTICAL GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT
Foodbank volunteers take the time to listen and support you. They are specially trained to know about local services and offer practical guidance so that you have access to the right support, helping you to break out of crisis.
Our foodbank provides three days of nutritionally balanced, non-perishable food.
The Trussell Trust has worked with nutritionists to ensure food parcels contains sufficient nutrition for at least three days’ worth of healthy, balanced meals for individuals and families.
A TYPICAL FOOD PARCEL INCLUDES:
• Cereal
• Pasta
• Rice
• Pasta sauce
• Beans
• Tinned meat
• Tinned vegetables
• Tea/coffee
• Tinned fruit
• Biscuits
• Soup
• Milk
• Toiletries
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
Our foodbank can usually adapt your food parcel to meet your dietary needs, for example, gluten free, halal or vegetarian. When you arrive at the foodbank, a volunteer will chat to you about any special dietary requirements you may have.
NON-FOOD ITEMS
We can usually also provide essential non-food items such as toiletries and hygiene products.
Got any other questions? Head over to our FAQ page to see if we’ve already answered them. If not, pop us a message and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.
We offer help beyond a food parcel. Find out more about additional services and support.
Our foodbank provides three days of nutritionally balanced, non-perishable food.
Our foodbank works using a voucher referral system - read on for more info on how to get a voucher.
You will be welcomed by volunteers to discuss your needs and prepare your food parcel.
