Colchester Foodbank 'desperate' to find new permanent home

Colchester Foodbank is currently based at Tollgate Retail Park but it is urgently searching for a new site.

The organisation officially moved into the retail park in January 2021, thanks to the Tollgate Partnership offering the foodbank a temporary space to operate from.

The foodbank’s lease ends in January 2025, and the charity is looking for a new space.

Co-directors Nikki Ranson and Armin Lange are appealing to landlords, business owners and the public to help find a suitable location.

Plea - Colchester Foodbank's Armin Lange and Nikki Ranson (Image: Colchester Foodbank) They said: “We have always believed in the power of community, and now, more than ever, we need the community to join us in finding a new home.

"Our mission to ensure that no one in Colchester goes hungry is unwavering, but we need a new space to continue this essential work.”

Colchester Foodbank is ideally looking for a building that is accessible, centrally located and large enough to store and distribute food to the “hundreds of individuals and families” who rely on the charity.

Armin Lange and Nikki Ranson have spent four years at the foodbank and became the new co-directors in February.

The pair have both served three years as warehouse manager and their aim is “to make a personal impact in the fight against food poverty”.

Site - another image of the foodbank's front entrance (Image: Newsquest) A spokesman for the foodbank emphasised the charity’s need for help.

They said: “As the central hub of Colchester's efforts to combat food insecurity, we are turning to our amazing and supportive community for help in finding a new home.

“For years, Colchester Foodbank has provided nutritious food and holistic support services aimed at addressing the root causes of food and fuel poverty within our community.

“We have also restored a sense of dignity to those we have helped.

"Without a new location, our ability to continue serving the community is at risk.”

Anyone who knows of a suitable property in Colchester is urged to email info@colchester.foodbank.org.uk or call 01206 621998.