THE Launceston Foodbank charity shop celebrates its first anniversary tomorrow (Thursday).

The foodbank management committee, along with the chairman Helen Bailey, started raising funds for themselves and aimed to ease itself away from relying on grant funding, which often has difficult criteria to meet.

Vice chairman Yvonne King still applies for funding wherever possible and there are supporters who make regular donations, along with the food donations from the community.

The staff at the foodbank and shop work as volunteers and this makes a huge difference in making sure they provide a continuous support for clients.

The delivery and furniture collection now works over two days a week, getting busier and busier all the time, as well as more active from the flights of stairs they have to tackle.

Volunteers, staff and management committee members celebrated the anniversary on Saturday, with a cake made by staff member Emma Davey.

Everyone had a lovely time meeting each other as it is a rare occurance to get everyone together at the same time.

Helen explained that at first they were first a little concerned and unsure of the position of the shop, situated on Newport Industrial Estate in Launceston, but it has proved to be an asset as customers can park easily outside and deliver goods as well.

“The added bonus is that we sell furniture, household items and clothing as well as toys and books, so it makes it worth a trip down to Newport.

“We would like to thank Launceston for the continued support we receive, and look forward to year two with confidence that we can continue to help people who find themselves in a difficult situation.

“The support from the community and the volunteers has been exceptional ensuring that the foodbank can continue to help those in crisis.”

The new window display in the shop was funded by Cornwall Council Community Chest funds, supported by Cllr Adam Paynter and former councillor Alex Folkes.

Helen added: “We are very lucky to have such good support from our councillors who help on many occasions with client referrals for help.”