Welcome

There is more poverty on our doorstep than most of us are aware of. Our aim and Christian response is to relieve hardship and poverty in our community.  A food parcel and/or clothing voucher can give temporary but immediate relief. We set up MATCH in June 2008 and in January 2010 we became PATCH to reflect our concern for the whole of Pembrokeshire. 

 

We have set up a “Basics Bank” of non-perishable food, clothing and toiletries, donated mostly by churches, but also from various other organisations or individuals.  This makes it possible to provide for the needs of an individual or family in a crisis situation. People find themselves in financial crisis for many reasons, for example: losing employment and waiting for benefits, homelessness, or marriage breakdown. So working on a referral-only basis from outside agencies such as Health Workers, Support Agencies, Social Services and others with first hand knowledge, Basics Bank Vouchers are given to those who are in an emergency situation.

A food parcel consists of  breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks for up to 5 days.

We provide some small household items, from cutlery and plates to bedding and towels. Small electrical items (toasters, kettles etc.) are PAT tested before being given out.

 

What we need

 

We need all clothing from underwear to coats and everything in between, with a particular need for men’s and boys’ clothes; from experience, there are more ladies’ items donated than anything else, and there can be a shortage of clothes for men.

Clothing of any quality can be donated, as all textiles and shoes, even in terrible condition, can be sent for recycling and this raises money for the project. The only textiles we cannot recycle are those with duvet type fillings – pillows, cushions etc.

For the Food side of the project we need tinned food, packets, and any non-perishables that are in date.  We cannot use dented tins even if they have been bought that way. Everything is thoroughly checked before being handed out.

PATCH also need financial donations for running cost, utilities,  and volunteer expenses.

If you would like to volunteer please contact us and arrange a “taster session”.