Get Help
How to get help
If you need help from our foodbank there are a few simple steps to follow.
The most important step is to get a foodbank voucher.
In order to provide the most appropriate help for the circumstances of your situation we work with local agencies. If they feel you are struggling to put food on the table, they will issue you with a foodbank voucher. The local agency can also provide long term support if needed to help address some of the issues behind the reasons for your crisis.
1. Get in touch with us.
If you are unsure of which referral agency will be best for you please call our foodbank on 0191 543 7247 We can talk through your situation and put you in touch with a relevant local agency.
2. Contact the Referral Agency
They will discuss your situation and may supply you with a foodbank voucher if it is appropriate.
Advice Services, Open to all:
Book an appointment with one of these organisations and mention that you would like a foodbank referral.
FISCUS – 0191 5111391
Citizens Advice (Sunderland East) – 0300 330 1194
SHARP (Washington and Coalfields) – 0191 385 6687
SWAP, Pallion Action Group (Sunderland North and West)- 0191 514 2930
Other Common Referrers:
Sunderland City Council – 0800 234 6084
Gentoo Money Matters – 0300 123 2004
Wear Recovery
Pennywell probation office
Wearside Women in Need
Together for Children
Age UK
Please Note:
All agencies have the right to refuse a referral if necessary.
3. Bring your foodbank voucher to your nearest foodbank centre.
You can find a list of the locations and times you can use your voucher here.
Once you have a voucher please attend any one of our centres during their foodbank opening times to exchange your voucher for a parcel of three days of emergency food
On arrival tell one our volunteers your code. Let us know there if you have any dietary requirements or any specific requests for food, toiletries or pet food.
If you have any further questions our FAQ’s page may help, or feel free to give us a call.