A Wolverhampton charity says demand for foodbanks across the city is higher than ever.
This comes a week after Rachel Reeves’s budget announcement, which many hoped would bring relief to the more deprived areas.
Secret Angels, located in Park Village, Wolverhampton, was founded in 2021 as a non-profit organisation aiming to provide support to the local community. Getting most of their donations from what they call “Secret ambassadors”.
Alvina Ali, director of Secret Angels, told WLV News: “The demand for food bank is growing.”
“When I first started, we only had about 10 to 15 people, and that was us doing emergency food parcels.”
From that, it got into something bigger, from cereals, tuna, potatoes, and pasta sauce, where they make sure people have a variety of options to pick from.
Alvina, said: “We tap into our Secret ambassadors, who range from individuals, organisations, and factory outlets which help us with donations, or bring food to our foodbank”
Having recently been awarded with The King’s Award for Voluntary Service, Secret Angels has left its mark as one of Wolverhampton’s most impactful charities. The award, often regarded as the ‘MBE for volunteer groups’, recognises the charity’s commitment to supporting vulnerable individuals and families across the city.
Through its food-bank provision, cost-of-living support, and wider community services, the charity has become a lifeline for those struggling. The recognition comes at a time for the organisation, which now provides support to more than 550 service users across Wolverhampton.
I just want to help, because I’ve got a roof over my head, I can fill my belly with food, and I know there are some people out there that can’t.
Shiv Sangar, Secret Ambassador for Secret Angels
“I’ve lost people to malnutrition, so I’m just trying to do what I can, whenever I can, just to do my bit by coming and dropping off donations” Shiv Sangar added.
Volunteer Jasveer Bougan, said: “We have to make sure our shelves are stocked.
“Our food are put into certain categories so that everyone can have something before they leave.”
Secret Angels open its doors at 10:30am every Tuesday ready to meet and welcome the residents in need.
Jasveer added: “They’re allowed to come for 12 visits in their lifetime. It’s usually in time of need when they really need to come and see us, and we will review how they are doing after the 12 week period.”