The Pantry, Newcastle’s local foodbank, is delivering food parcels to nearly 150 homes each month, supporting over 400 people. However, as demand for its services is expected to increase during the winter months, the organisation faces steadily rising costs, as was shared during its annual general meeting.
The Pantry provides essential food support to those in need in Newcastle, Castlewellan, Dundrum, Clough, and surrounding areas. Chairman John O’Neill highlighted that their monthly deliveries help provide for 237 adults and 177 children, ensuring they have enough to eat.
“Over the past 12 months, we have seen a steady demand for the service we provide,” O’Neill said. “And as the cost-of-living crisis continues, much work is still to be done in order to fulfill our commitment.”
He reflected on some of the personal stories that show the real-life impact of the service. “Our slogan is, ‘With God’s help, together we can make a difference,’ and we do make a difference in people’s lives. I was reminded of this recently at one of our street collections in Newcastle, when a man lowered his car window, threw a handful of coins into the bucket, and thanked us for helping his family when they needed it.”
He also recalled a woman thanking the volunteers during their annual Christmas foodbank promotion at Tesco, for the help they had received during difficult times. “I know many of the volunteers have similar stories from people we have helped in the past,” O’Neill added.
The Pantry operates as a registered charity, run entirely by volunteers and funded through generous donations. O’Neill paid tribute to the dedication of those who volunteer, saying, “It’s the volunteers who make it happen. Week by week they pack food parcels, deliver them to those in need, organise rotas, and manage finances to ensure we can continue to support people.”
He also acknowledged the immense support the foodbank receives from individual donors, local businesses, schools, sports clubs, and church groups. “Hardly a week goes by that we don’t see an increase in costs somewhere. Our volunteers are always there, rain or shine, getting on with the job,” he said.
O’Neill made special mention of the congregation of Donard Methodist Church, whose hall has served as the base for The Pantry’s operations for the past 10 years. The foodbank holds an open-door afternoon every Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm, where anyone facing food insecurity can come and discuss their needs in complete confidence. The Pantry is signposted on Park Avenue, off Causeway Road.
To access assistance, individuals can seek referrals through social workers, GP surgeries, Home Start, Sure Start, the Housing Executive, family support workers, local clergy, or Newry, Mourne and Down Community Advice.
For further details or to get involved, the public can contact The Pantry via email at thepantryfoodbank@gmail.com or call 07517 766006.
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