Worthing foodbank scheme awarded £2,000 to meet rising demand

A Worthing-based food bank scheme has received a £2,000 boost from the town council to help meet rising demand and food costs.

St Matt’s Meals, run by volunteers at St Matthew’s Church on Tarring Road, was awarded the grant through Worthing Borough Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Fund. The initiative offers short-term food support to individuals and families living within a mile of the church.

Since launching in 2021, the group has provided food parcels containing enough for three days of meals, supported initially by donations from churchgoers. The funding will help cover increased food costs and growing demand. There is no need for referrals to access the service, and the church also offers affordable refreshments through its Coffee on the Corner café. Families can also access holiday lunches and receive guidance on wider cost of living support.