Its been a busy few months in the Cheltenham Foodbank and we are so grateful to the many people who make it all possible in so many different ways. The fact that times are tough isn’t a new headline at the moment. The reality is that more people than ever are using the Foodbank and often are in more and more need. Sometimes it can feel like we can’t make much of a difference but I’m always reminded of the story of the boy and the starfish.
One day a man was walking along the beach, when he noticed a boy hurriedly picking up and gently throwing things into the ocean. Approaching the boy, he asked, “Young man, what are you doing?” The boy replied, “Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die.” The man laughed to himself and said, “Don’t you realize there are miles and miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make any difference!”
After listening politely, the boy bent down, picked up another starfish, and threw it into the surf. Then, smiling at the man, he said,
“I made a difference to that one.”
While we may may not be able to change the world in one go we can start making a difference and the hope is that as we meet people at the Foodbank we are able to give them food but also to offer them a place that feels safe, a moment to breath and someone to share with. And together we can all make a bit more of a difference. What may feel like a small donation goes towards helping someone have food to eat, a smile and giving someone an extra bit of time shows someone that they matter, speaking out for those who don’t have a voice, it all adds up. So let’s not give up, while we may not be able to change the world, we can make a difference.

HARVEST DONATIONS!

We are so grateful to the schools, churches and individuals who have donated so generously over the last few weeks. It means so much to both us and those who receive the parcels so thank you!!