ReadiFood (Food Bank) - Reading

veryverytrickyindeed

Dropped a load of food and toiletries off today - super friendly people to help, and I'll be back to help again.

Sandra E.

I had been advised to contact this organisation through CAB who initially and extensively went through my incoming and outgoing expenses which satisfied them of the need before being forwarded to the Trussell Trust. They were only able to issue food vouchers to allocated food banks where you could pick and collect a food parcel but too far away for me to travel to.
I was initially happy with the food parcel home deliveries once referred to Readifood with the suggested food amount delivery and frequency, but I have found that Readifood have stopped the suggested delivery frequency schedule as requested through Trussell Trust, by
half, and are directing you to 'buy' the goods instead at their Readifood pantry.
So what they are doing is lessening individuals food delivery frequency so that they have it to 'sell' at their pantry instead..., this I find is unethical, if not illegal, as all foods are genuinely donated from various sources and organisations in the hope that it reaches those who are in need the most and not for resale which is what Readifood are doing. It would be interesting to know what they have done with the money that they have collected so far.?
UPDATE:- 24th January 2024.
We have just requested a food parcel delivery, one of which is for dietary requirements again going through the channels of the hardship services who have forwarded the request to Readifood.
I have just received this message from them stating that they have now refused to make food deliveries to ourselves.
Hi,
Unfortunately the Readifood foodbank will not deliver to your address to yourself or your Mum currently.
There is another independent foodbank you can both access:
New Beginnings Community Fridge
Queens Arms, Gt Knollys Street, Reading, RG1 7HL. Open Wednesday 12-1, Thursday 6-7pm, Friday 6-7pm.
Free food, drop-in service, no referral required.
HTH Helpline
Please also see their recent review response below as stated:-
'The allegations of selling donated food and restricting foodbank deliveries are utterly erroneous', which is now proven as a very contradictory statement as is said also that they purchase food from Fareshare, who are a charity organisation that collect surplus foods from supermarkets free of charge.
I have e-mailed them as to why this has happened and I am waiting a response for their reasons which I will share and update on this page.
This I believe is due to the negative and honest review I have given on this page.
Readifood are said to be a christian faith and charitable organisation which states that monies received from their pantries go towards buying milk and fresh produce which is not strictly true as non of these items are ever available at their pantries.
I make aware to the good and honest people and organisations who do donate to Readifood that this establishment is dishonest in its handling and are not reaching the needs of most people in the current crisis.

Peter B.

Run by a team of highly dedicated individuals who, no matter who you are or your situation, do not pre-judge ANYBODY. They are truly unsung hero's who are friendly, helpful & always have time for people - no matter how busy their service(s) is, staff member & volunteer alike.

Many people rely on food banks from time to time. They come from walks of life & each person has their own reasons & 'story'. Unless you have ever experienced this - from any angle - it can be hard to appreciate the most basic needs of others & how vital such services truly are but nobody in genuine need should be concerned or embarrassed about requesting help. Even the four-legged members of your family get a look-in !!!

Heartfelt thanks must also go out to the supermarkets, local businesses, members of public & others who generously donate in whatever way possible. Special mention for Aldi - on this occasion - who have once again, this year, donated large quantities of fresh & perishable goods (that would otherwise go to waste) after closing on Christma Eve for the festive break.

(This well deserved review is also writen pp TIM S)

Usman M.

My social worker rafer me to them i am a disable from my hands or they deliever to my place thus week on monday its was great to see them when they arrived to my pkace one v nice lady or v good was that time i fell v happy thx alot GOD BLESS U GUYS ALWAYS

TEZ S.

Just always the best and just full of amazing staff.
I wud struggle without their help but I try not to bother them as much as poss coz other ppl need their help.

Love you all xx
T

Rachel B.

You need to update your info on Google. It says you are open now, I've just drove over to donate food and it's shut. Donations from 10am to 2pm Mon-Fri? How are those that work meant to donate. I will take donation elsewhere.

Adrian M. N.

Wonderful staff and professional which they make a change in the local community with your help.

suzanne K.

Extremely caring and giving. They are very helpful people. No one would ever go hungry.