I went to the Number 2 Storehouse in Halesowen at lunch time today to meet the volunteers and learn more about the work they do at this site.
The work that is happening at this distribution centre, a centre which is entirely manned by volunteers, is absolutely incredible.
Kelvin showed me around the warehouse. The centre distributes to a number of food banks or projects such as soup kitchens around the Black Country area. 
As well as food, the centre also supplies second hand clothing and homewares for those who are in need. These are obtained on a referral basis from a number of local agencies.
We took a donation of food into this centre, and this is what they rely on - donations. They also accept donations of items such as soap and shampoo. As one volunteer pointed out, if it is a choice between feeding your family or buying toiletries, food will always be the greater priority.
This centre has been open since 2006 but the useage only increases. Last December, the centre helped feed nearly 450 children. There is a peak in usage in the feeding of children when there are school holidays as they will not be getting a school dinner.
In terms of growth of useage, in 2006 this centre fed 45 people. In 2012, the centre helped to feed 11,950 people.
The statistics speak for themselves.
The work that is happening here is incredibly humbling. When the EU entertainments budget has been increased by 82% and Eurocrats quaff champagne in the parliament, we have people back in the UK who are relying on food banks for a nutritious meal.
What would we do without these fantastic volunteers and those who donate food to centres such as this?
This was an eye opening visit and I will continue to support food banks here in the West Midlands.
