After nine months of building work and preparation, and delays due to COVID restrictions, the first phase of community facilities at the former Fleetwood Hospital is now open and supporting local residents.
The Pantry is the new home for the combined Fleetwood Foodbank and the Mustard Seed, delivered by the Town’s Church of England and Catholic parishes as Faith in the Community.
Father Alf Hayes of St Wulstans & St Edmunds said, “The foodbank started around 11 years ago and alongside the Mustard Seed we’ve always been there to help those in need. The Pantry will be one of the bases for support as part of Fleetwood Together which was delivering food packages to up to 1,300 people a week earlier in the year. The numbers are lower now but likely to increase again in the challenging months ahead.”
Funding to create The Pantry has been provided by the owners of the hospital building, The Fleetwood Trust. Charley Wilkinson, the Trust’s Chief Executive Officer said, “We are delighted to hand over the new facility to Faith in the Community. This is the start of the vision the Fleetwood Trust has for the site to become a vibrant and sustainable hub serving the needs of the local community.”
Taking a break from his volunteering session at The Pantry, Fr John Hall of St David’s & St Peter’s summed up, “We are here to support all those who are in need, to offer a friendly face and a compassionate ear.”
For further information on the support available from The Pantry or to volunteer, telephone 07467 498406.