Since 2019, we have been successfully collaborating with Horsham Matters to provide essential food parcels deliveries for those in Henfield who need emergency food help. During this time many local families have been helped. Recently there have been a few improvements to the way emergency food provision is managed in Henfield which will enhance the service.
People in need of emergency food and necessities in Henfield are still encouraged to call Horsham District Food Bank (Horsham Matters) on 0300 124 0204. After individuals needs are assessed by a trained operator at Horsham Matters, they will be offered one of two options:
If the person has transport, is well enough to travel, and if their need is not immediate, they will be given a voucher code and directed to the Horsham Matters Hub van which visits the Henfield Library Car Park every Friday morning between 11.45am-12.45pm. The van contains store-cupboard essentials and toiletries and a knowledgable Horsham Matters professional will be on hand to give advice on debt help, benefits and other challenges. However, they cannot allocate food without a voucher code - anyone needing food must call the Horsham Matters number (0300 124 0204) in advance.
If the caller is in immediate need (for example their cupboard is entirely empty, are incapacitated, or are unable to transport themselves), then a pre-packed emergency parcel of nutritionally-balanced store-cupboard essentials, and possibly a voucher for fresh produce, will be delivered to their doorstep within 24 hours (usually same-afternoon). This is a short term, emergency help.
We are proud to say that the collection of foodstuffs in the village to support Horsham Matters, which started in early 2020, is going from strength-to-strength. The people of Henfield have been incredibly generous with around 10,000 items donated during the past two years via the collection baskets in Budgens and St Peter’s Church. Please do continue to support these collections where you can. Separately, Stokes Newsagents and Corpus Christi Church have also collected foodstuffs independently and donated extensively.
Food poverty and insecurity is an increasing problem for both individuals and families through no fault of their own. If you are affected, please don’t suffer in silence but get in touch with Horsham Matters on 0300 124 0204 who will be able to help you.
Editor