Referral Form

We undertake to refer our clients to our food bank on the understanding that we are satisfied that their need is genuine.

The referring Agency hereby undertakes to inform their client that they are responsible for checking all dates, seals and packing on the donated foods - whilst Maidstone Homeless Care takes every care, no responsibility will be accepted by Maidstone Homeless Care for any goods unsuitable for use.

We understand that our food bank should not be used to supplement weekly shopping or to counter budgeting problems for whatever reason, but should be used at times of genuine crisis only.

YOU WILL NEED TO CALL IN THE FIRST INSTANCE TO SPEAK WITH A MEMBER OF STAFF. WE CAN THEN DISCUSS YOUR CLIENTS NEEDS AND MAKE UP A FOOD PARCEL TO MEET INDIVIDUAL

REQUIREMENTS. A TIME WILL THEN BE GIVEN FOR COLLECTION.

If you are unable to use the below form, please download, complete and return a copy to foodparcels@homelesscare.org.uk.

Download Form

Request a Food Parcel

Get a referral to the food bank and help with benefits, budgeting and debt

If you are in need of a food parcel, a good place to ask for a referral is your nearest Citizens Advice.

Tell them you need the food bank - they'll need to make you an appointment to discuss your situation with an adviser.

The adviser will ask you some questions about your income and needs. They can check if you should be getting any benefits you're not currently claiming and tell you about other local help you could get. The adviser can also give you advice about budgeting and any debts you have.

The adviser can refer you to your nearest food bank, if you're eligible.

Maidstone Citizens Advice - 2 Bower Terrace Tonbridge Road, Maidstone, Kent, ME16 8RY .

Alternately, there are many agencies, social and care workers as well as Maidstone Borough Council that can request a food parcel.

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Emergency Support

Kent Support and Assistance Service (KSAS at Kent County Council) may be able to help you if you are having serious difficulties managing your income due to a crisis or if you are facing exceptional pressures because of an emergency.

Additionally, they may be able to help if you or someone in your household is returning to the community after living in supported housing, an institution or a care setting. The support offered may be goods and/or services, including:

· groceries (for up to 7 days)

· baby food, milk and nappies

· furniture (beds and seating)

· crockery

· bedding/curtains/carpets

· essential electrical appliances (fridge, cooking appliance, washing machine)

· clothing

and help with:

· utilities (prepayment gas and electric, for up to 7 days)

· emergency travel arrangements via public transport (for example to flee a crisis)

Find Out More Here