Fighting Food Poverty in Bassetlaw
Bassetlaw Food Bank was founded in 2018 by a group of local residents who recognised a growing need for emergency food support in our community. What started as a small initiative has grown into a vital lifeline for families and individuals across the Bassetlaw district.
We provide emergency food parcels to people in crisis, offering three days' worth of nutritionally balanced food along with essential toiletries and hygiene products. As a registered charity (no. 1209747), we are committed to transparency, accountability, and making every donation count.
Today, we serve the communities of Worksop, Retford, Harworth, and Tuxford through our 4 distribution points, supported by 45 dedicated volunteers who give their time to sort donations, pack parcels, and welcome those who need our help with warmth and dignity.
Our Mission and Values
Our Mission
To help people in crisis across the Bassetlaw district by providing emergency food parcels and connecting them with support services that can address the root causes of food poverty.
Our Vision
A Bassetlaw where nobody goes hungry and where strong community support networks ensure that every person has access to nutritious food and the help they need to thrive.
Our Values
Everything we do is guided by dignity, respect, compassion, and community. We welcome everyone without judgement and believe that nobody should have to face hunger alone.
Meet Our Trustees
Sarah Thompson
Chair
Sarah co-founded Bassetlaw Food Bank in 2018 and has led our growth from a small community initiative to a registered charity serving thousands of families each year.
James Mitchell
Treasurer
James brings over 20 years of financial management experience and ensures every penny donated is used effectively to support families in need across Bassetlaw.
Rachel Foster
Secretary
Rachel oversees our governance and compliance, drawing on her background in community development to strengthen our partnerships with local organisations and referral agencies.
David Okonkwo
Trustee
David is a local business owner who is passionate about giving back to the community. He helps coordinate our volunteer programme and corporate donation partnerships.
Key Facts
2,437+
Families helped this year
45
Active volunteers
4
Distribution points
8
Years serving the community