FOODBANK
Arena Community foodbank is based at the Community Hub on Belfield Street, Ilkeston. The foodbank was started in response to the needs within Cotmanhay and Ilkeston. It was clear that individuals and families were struggling to aord the most basic necessities. The foodbank began by providing lunch to those in need and was based at The Arena, Rutland Street, Ilkeston, with food donated by members of Arena Church. The foodbank has now grown from a wooden pallet of donations to a warehouse. The foodbank is open every Tuesday and Friday 12pm-2pm serving hot food and drinks, and providing a safe place for people to sit and chat. Foodbank is also able to provide food parcels with a 3-day provision through a means-tested interview. Arena Community has been able to create good partnerships with local businesses who regularly donate to the foodbank. It is also supported by people signing up to our One Thousand Club. We have given away 8,324 food parcels between 2011 and 2016. These food parcels went to various families or individuals in hardship. Over 47% of all food parcels given out are for families of 3 or more. We serve an average of 85 meals a week, and over 100 a week during Christmas. We have connections with local housing charities to help tenants that are in dire need of food.