Feed Cork celebrates seven years of helping families suffering from food poverty

FEED Cork is celebrating seven years of working in Cork city and surrounding areas to meet the growing needs that people are facing.

The organisation recently celebrated its seventh annual Volunteer Appreciation Day, which was attended by Finance Minister Michael McGrath and councillor Seamus McGrath.

Every week the volunteers distribute over seven tonnes of food to more than 600 people in Cork city from their base at Cork Church, Lower Oliver Plunkett St.

More than 40 volunteers spend 450 hours a week to meet their clients needs on their two days of operation, ensuring that each family receives a four- to five-day supply of food, and enjoys access to the complimentary cafe.

During their visit, the minister and councillor paid tribute to the hard work and dedication of their team of volunteers.

A spokesperson for Feed Cork said that Michael McGrath acknowledged the challenges that many are facing and brought to light the important role that organisations like Feed Cork play in the current economic climate, highlighting the positive social impact that the volunteer sector plays in reaching those who have been left vulnerable to food poverty.

The spokesperson said that Mr McGrath committed to provide his support as the charity seeks to receive much-needed core funding from various government grants and social enterprise initiatives.

At present, Feed Cork is maintained and supported almost entirely by donations from the public sector.

During the ceremony, Feed Cork director Hamp Sirmans shared that 500,000 meals, over 9,000 food parcels accounting for 400 tonnes of food were provided over the year, and the programme saw over €1.2m go back into the households of over 3,800 annual clients.

Through their partnership with Brook Foods, FoodCloud, and Ashdale Catering, the volunteer team delivered over 22,000 meals to children at the weekends referred to them through the school system.