Newton Abbot’s Tesco is providing essential support for Teignbridge Homeless Action Today foodbank in more ways than one.

The superstore has undergine a refit, including the installation of new shelving – but rather than throwing away the old shelves, they were donated to THAT so volunteers can store even more items for those in need.

The donation couldn’t have come at a better time for the foodbank, which recently moved premises because it had been struggling with a lack of sufficient space.

Now THAT can stock many more food items and toiletry packs, as well as home start-up packs for people moving into a new home.

Linda Brown, office manager at THAT, said: ‘We’re so grateful to Tesco Newton Abbot for this generous donation.

‘All the staff here have commented on how much easier the shelving from Tesco has made the day-to-day running of our storeroom.

‘It has made everything more visible and accessible.

‘Our aim is to alleviate food poverty throughout Teignbridge, as well as helping our clients address the underlying issues which surround the problem, and so we work with them for positive outcomes.

‘We aim to offer a friendly, non-judgmental and positive welcome to vulnerable claimants in financial difficulty across Teignbridge.’

The THAT foodbank receives the equivalent of 1,000 meals a month from the Tesco store’s customers as part of a scheme that’s been running for a year.

THAT began life in 2011 to address the needs of rough sleepers.

However, at the request of Social Services and the local council, the charity soon developed into a much-needed food bank.

It is overseen by trustees and an executive committee, with Linda being responsible for the daily running, supported by a group of dedicated volunteers.

THAT works closely with a range of partner agencies, including the housing department, housing associations, drug and alcohol projects, children’s charities, doctors and schools.

Janette Parker, Tesco Community Champion, said: ‘When our store started replacing the shelving due to a refit, the foodbank approached us about donating the outgoing shelving, and we were more than happy to help them.

‘The people at THAT do any incredible job for so many people, and we’re really pleased that our good fortune of having a store refit also benefitted the foodbank volunteers, making it easier for them to support the community.’