Cardiff City supporters’ foodbank collection to support those in need in Rhymney valley

Football supporters will be holding a foodbank collection to help support those in need in the Rhymney valley.

Cardiff City Supporters Trust will set up a food donation point before Cardiff’s home game against Rotherham United on Saturday, October 29.

The food collected will be delivered to Rhymney Valley Foodbank, which is based at St Peter’s Church in Aberbargoed and has distribution points in both Rhymney and New Tredegar.

The collection point will be set up from 12.30pm and will be near Gate 5 at the Cardiff City Stadium.

It will be the third foodbank collection organised by the supporters trust.

Steve Evans-Jones, Operations Manager at Rhymney Valley Foodbank, explained the foodbank was struggling to meet increasing demand.

He said: “Between April and September 2021, the foodbank issued 1,842 parcels with 1,132 adults and 710 for children. But between April and September this year, we issued 917 parcels – a 50% reduction and at time when demand had increased.

Mr Evans-Jones also spoke of how rising demand has been caused by people falling into debt trying to meet rising energy and food costs, as well as changes to benefit income, domestic violence and homelessness.

David Craig, vice chair of the supporters trust, said: “We know so many families and individuals are really struggling to put food on tables and heat their homes and that has meant donations to foodbanks have fallen.

“The Trust is appealing to all fans to give whatever they can afford – whether it is a tin or jar of food or a bag of items. Really, anything supporters can give will be gratefully received by those running the foodbank.”

Mike Spear, who is a board member on the supporters trust, said: “The story we were told of the struggles many face in the Rhymney Valley with enormous deprivation was both moving and worrying.

“The trust knows life is difficult for many and we hope Cardiff City fans will again show their generosity and help those who are on the breadline, struggling to live.

“We’d once again like to thank Cardiff City Football Club, its staff and players for their support.”