We’re More Than a Foodbank — But We Need Your Help

Aim: We do more than food. Help us protect the advice, skills & support services that change lives in Rainham.

Over the years, Rainham Foodbank has stood as a beacon of hope for individuals and families facing crisis. Together, we've ensured that no one in our community goes hungry. But our work doesn’t stop with food. Behind every food parcel is a deeper story—a struggle with debt, unemployment, isolation, or navigating life in a new country.

That’s why we’ve developed our “More Than Food” services:

• Financial Inclusion – expert help from Citizens Advice, debt support, advocacy and benefit advice
• Skills Building – sewing workshops, English classes for refugees and art classes
• Employability – CV writing, job search support, interview practice and more
• Befriending – tackling isolation and loneliness in an area with a high proportion of older residents

These vital programmes are transforming lives and creating communities—but right now, they are at risk. Our funding is running out. Without urgent financial support, these services may be forced to reduce or even close. We’re calling on you—our incredible supporters—to help us keep this lifeline going.

Your gift today could mean:

- A family getting the help they need to escape debt
- A refugee learning English and finding their first job
 - A lonely neighbour finding friendship and community, improving their mental health and renewed confidence

- A single parent learning new sewing skills in order to start their own business, grow their support network and improve their families finances.

Please, if you’re able, make a donation today. No amount is too small. Every pound is a step towards long-term change and brighter futures.

With your help, Rainham Foodbank can continue to be more than a foodbank. Together, we can restore dignity, revive hope and transform lives.

Jennifer’s* Story 

“I was a dead person inside the grave... and they brought me back.”

When Jennifer’s* home was destroyed in a fire, she lost everything. The trauma pushed her into debt and despair. With nowhere else to turn, she came to Rainham Foodbank—exhausted, overwhelmed, and terrified for the future she and her 11 year old son faced.

She didn’t just find food. She found a way forward.

At Rainham Foodbank Jennifer* was able to access our Financial Inclusion services, where advocates intervened with the bank on her behalf—stopping the pressure, negotiating fair repayments, and even helping reduce her debt. She also received counselling to help her begin healing.

Jennifer* also joined the Sewing Sanctuary, where she found community, creativity, and confidence. What started as a class became a lifeline. Today, she’s helping others feel at home too.

“My life could have gone... but Rainham Foodbank brought me back. They kept both me and my child living. This place is our big home for everything we need in life.”

“I was a dead person inside the grave, and this place dove down like in the sea to bring me back up. I’m still alive because of Rainham Foodbank. They did a lot for my family.”

Jennifer’s* story is just one. But right now, the services that changed her life are at risk.

Please help us keep these life-changing programmes running—for Jennifer*, and for the next person who walks through our doors.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 8th September 2025 at 5:49pm