In June 2023, GB Tyres spoke with Black Country Foodbank about the pressure on local food support services. As a supporter of the charity, the business wanted to understand the challenges facing its community and draw attention to the work being done to help.
Growing demand for essential support
During the conversation, the charity’s chief executive, Jen Coleman, reported a 25% increase in demand at that time. The charity was helping people from a wide range of backgrounds, including households with someone in full-time employment.
Black Country Foodbank also reported fewer donations, which meant using financial reserves to buy essential food and toiletry items. Supplies were moving through the warehouse quickly as the charity worked to meet the needs of local households.
New ways to help families
The June 2023 update described plans for additional foodbanks and the preparation of 500 recipe bags for the Dudley Holiday Activity Fund. These bags were intended to help families during the summer holidays, with further school-based support being explored for later that year.
The conversation highlighted the practical role that local charities play, and why GB Tyres had chosen to support Black Country Foodbank. It also showed how community organisations were adapting their services in response to changing needs.
This article records the charity’s position in June 2023. Readers looking to help should check Black Country Foodbank’s latest guidance directly, as donation requirements and services change over time.