Aster Group donates to local food banks

Local housing association, Aster Group, has made a £3,500 donation to seven food banks across the south and south west. 

Aster colleagues have long supported the work of food banks. Before the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, Aster offices were used as food collection points which were shared with local food banks. Although colleagues have continued to support food banks by donating through supermarkets, these financial donations are also much needed. In September, analysis from the Trussell Trust, which supports a nationwide network of food banks, forecast a 61% increase in food parcels would be needed across its UK network between October and December.

Darren Brazil, Aster regional director, said: “We know first-hand how important the work of these food banks is. Our Financial Wellbeing and Housing teams are always incredibly grateful for the help that food banks provide to our customers in the most challenging circumstances, and we know that now more than ever they play a crucial role in supporting people in our community.”

Alongside food and financial donations to food banks, Aster’s dedicated Financial Wellbeing team helps its customers access the right benefits and support  available to them. Our team empowers customers to understand their financial circumstances and helps  them to manage their budgets.  During 2020 the team  reclaimed over £379k for customers through benefit applications and appeals.

Alongside financial wellbeing services offered to Aster customers, the Aster Foundation also supports customers with full benefits checks, budgeting advice, help to find employment and a Digital College which delivers accredited learning online.