District Administrator Frank John was keen to gain an impression of the work of Tafel Homburg e. V. on site. On a distribution day, he was warmly welcomed by members of the board and staff, who accompanied him on a tour.
This led through the administration area, the community café, various storage rooms, the vegetable cleaning room and finally through the serving area, where a large proportion of the volunteers could be found. There was no hustle and bustle this morning. Regulated access to the distribution centre was maintained even after coronavirus in order to avoid overcrowding in the room, which is deliberately not heated at any time of year.
Board member Anita Graf-Fischbach provided information about the structures and processes at the food bank: "We supply a total of 1,350 people in the Saarpfalz district with food every month - including families, single parents and senior citizens. However, it is becoming increasingly difficult to look after the growing number of people in need, as retailers are no longer providing the quantity of products that they once did. One reason for this, for example, is that companies have optimised their supply chains and are placing their orders more precisely and in a more targeted manner." In turn, too few food donations are the reason why no new customers can currently be accepted.
According to Anita Graf-Fischbach, however, there is no cause for concern about the Homburg food bank team, which is mainly made up of volunteers, is very well organised and works together with visible diligence to master the tasks. In addition, many of the Tafel guests are willing to lend a hand where and when necessary. "This makes it possible to plan processes on site quite well and compensate for short-term absences, for example due to illness, relatively easily. We on the Board are very grateful for this," added Anita Graf-Fischbach.
As a result, District Administrator Frank John no longer had to be convinced that they were working hand in hand here.
"The work of the Homburg food bank is undeniably indispensable. However, I don't just see it as a place where food is distributed, but also as a place of encounter, respect and solidarity. As an important pillar of social participation, the commitment of the food bank deserves our recognition. Many thanks to all those who - whether full-time or on a voluntary basis - help people in difficult situations with great personal commitment and take on responsibility in our society."