STRATFORD Foodbank has officially opened the doors of its new premises.
The larger site in Mason’s Road brings the foodbank’s warehouse, distribution sessions, offices and meeting spaces under one roof for the first time. This will support the charity’s growing operations and create a new community hub designed to offer personalised, dignified support to local people.
The charity was based at the Fred Winter Centre from January 2022 to May of this year.
Local artist Ali Glover, director of Make Murals and Workshops CIC and producer of the Paint Stratford Mural trail, has created a mural at the entrance of the new building, made possible with the support of a grant from Stratford Town Trust.
Ali designed the artwork to soothe, guide, and welcome visitors.
She said: “It was an absolute privilege to work there, meet the dedicated team of staff and volunteers, and learn more about the vital services they provide. I hope this mural signals respect and care to everyone who walks through the doors.”
The search for a new premises began in 2023 when it was concluded that the Fred Winter Centre in Guild Street was no longer big enough to meet the foodbank’s needs.
The move comes after another busy year serving Stratford and surrounding villages.
In 2024/25, 5,296 emergency food parcels were distributed, 1,907 children were supported through food parcels, 42.8 tonnes of donated food were received, an additional 14.4 tonnes of food was purchased to meet demand, including 5.1 tonnes of fresh food and 359 home deliveries were made, supporting 856 people unable to attend in person.
And while emergency food remains a vital service, Stratford Foodbank’s vision goes further – to work with partners to prevent and relieve poverty.
Alongside food provision, the charity delivers financial inclusion support in partnership with other agencies, helping clients access benefits, manage debt and improve long-term financial stability. Support Agency Spotlight sessions at distribution sites also connect clients with specialist organisations for tailored advice.
The new community hub will allow this wider support to expand.
Foodbank manager Asher Deakin added: “The move into Masons Road Hub marks a significant moment for the foodbank. Demand for our services is 70 per cent higher than in 2019 and this new space gives us the capacity to respond with compassion to people facing crisis.”
*The foodbank has also expanded its support across the district with the launch of a new satellite session in Bidford.
It runs every Thursday from 5pm until 6pm at The Crawford Memorial Hall, offering residents easier access to emergency food and support without needing to travel into Stratford.
