Exciting Developments In St. Ives: St. Ives Food Bank Finds New Home at Edward Hain Centre

The Edward Hain Centre in St. Ives is set to become the new base for the St Ives Food Bank, marking a significant advancement in community service and support.

This move, scheduled for completion on Monday, 20th May, is not just a logistical change but also a promising enhancement for both the charity and the community.

Collaborative Efforts Lead to New Beginnings

After facing difficulties in securing a new location, the St Ives Food Bank reached out to St. Ives Town Council for assistance. The council recommended the newly renovated Edward Hain Centre as a potential site. This suggestion has now culminated in the relocation of the Food Bank, enabling it to continue its critical mission of feeding the local community.

The centre itself has recently hosted NHS clinics and runs a weekly ‘Knit & Natter’ group, enhancing its role as a community hub. Kit Hain Grindstaff, a trustee of the Edward Hain Centre and a descendant of its founders, expressed excitement about the move, noting the potential for increased community activities and the vibrant new energy the Food Bank will bring.

Volunteers Needed for the Big Move

The final stages of the move will require considerable effort, as transporting fridges, freezers, and stock from the Food Bank’s former premises at Chy an Gweal to their new home at the Edward Hain Centre is akin to moving house. Chris Wallis, a project co-ordinator for the Food Bank, highlighted the need for additional hands to help with the move scheduled for 9:45 AM on the 20th May.

The community’s involvement is crucial, and the Food Bank is calling on residents to volunteer their time. Those interested can contact Chris via the Food Bank’s Facebook page (enter ‘St Ives Food Bank’ in the search bar) or by phone on 07958 390303.

Support Beyond Physical Help

In addition to physical help, the Food Bank faces financial costs associated with setting up in the new location. The community is encouraged to support financially, with details and a donation link to be provided on the Food Bank’s Facebook page.

A Vision for Health and Community Wellbeing

The move is also a stride towards realising the vision of transforming the Edward Hain Centre into a new health and community hub. This initiative aligns with the original purpose of the building and will continue to serve the health and wellbeing needs of St. Ives residents.

As the moving day approaches, the excitement within the community is palpable, promising a renewed spirit of cooperation and support at the Edward Hain Centre.