A food bank to help struggling families has been helping keep spirits across Colindale high.

The Colindale Food Bank, in The Concourse, Graham Park, has been helping feed people facing financial difficulties for three years.

Since its launch, the scheme has grown from strength to strength, with community support from volunteers from Jesus House Church in Brent Cross.

Church Pastor Chieme Okuzu, the project co-ordinator, said: “It has been a slow climb but we think it has been a success.

“People are so grateful – sometimes it can be so overwhelming to see how much difference this makes.

“It is encouraging to know that there is a strong sense of community spirit alive in Colindale ensuring that everyone in the local area has access to food.

“We take a practical approach – if someone keeps coming back we need to look at how we can improve their situation. We don’t want to offer a temporary solution, but a permanent one.”

Food vouchers are given to the Citizens Advice Bureau, housing association Affinity Sutton and other front-line staff, to hand out to people in need.

Each voucher entitles a family to three days worth of food – such as dried pasta, rice and soups – for each person.

But volunteers are also keen to ensure the people who use the food bank do not need to come back, so also offer practical support including advice on how to find a job.

Community team leader Tinuke Akinbulumo said: “The dedicated volunteers have been fantastic – we couldn’t pull this off without them.

“It is obviously sad there is a need for something like this, but I’m pleased we are able to offer this facility.”

Hendon MP Matthew Offord visited the centre yesterday and thanked the volunteers for supporting the people in the community.

He added: “I’m very impressed – this holistic approach to everything is part of the way to tackle the solution.”