Member Article

Boss Of Oven Valeting Service Ovenu Solihull Responds To Foodbank Appeal

Elliott Robinson of oven valeting service Ovenu Solihull has responded to a local foodbank’s plea for help after reports that it was in danger of closing.

The 44-year-old, who has been in business for 16 years, collected several bags of foodstuffs from clients before delivering them to Community Essentials in Olton, Solihull.

It has experienced a two-fold increase in demand for its emergency food parcels and was struggling to cope before a successful appeal for both donations of food and cash.

Stephen Palmer, who helped found the voluntary organisation, said there had been a 100 percent increase in demand over the past month from individuals and families in crisis in the Solihull and South Birmingham areas.

It is currently distributing up to 125 emergency food parcels, containing a minimum three days’ worth of meals, every week.

Stephen said: “We are grateful to Elliott and the others who have come forward to show their support and I appeal to local people and businesses to help us to continue making a difference by donating foodstuffs or money to cover our running costs.

“We have seen a 100 percent increase in demand for our emergency food parcels over the past month – rising from around 60 to 125 per week, and I can only see that continuing to increase.”

Elliott added: “I’ve been raising awareness about Community Essentials’ great work among my clients and inviting them to make a food bank donation.

“I’ve been delighted at the response and have collected a wide range of items from tinned tuna to breakfast cereals, cooking sauces, and packs of rice and pasta.

“Everyone appreciates times are tough and that many find themselves in a tight spot through no fault of their own. Community Essentials make a real difference to so many in the area and I’m just pleased to do something to help.”

Ovenu Solihull also covers Olton, Dickens Heath, Shirley, Dorridge, Hillfields, Tidbury Green, Chelmsley Wood, Elmdon, Meriden, Balsall Common and surrounding areas.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by News Gathering .