Cynon Valley MP & trade unions raise £2300 for local foodbanks

Cynon Valley MP Beth Winter, alongside RCT Trades Union Council has raised over £2300 for local foodbanks by organising a band night in Aberdare.

The event took place on April 1^st and saw local musicians Jeff Japers, Cripplecreek and DJ Gareth Hopkins play at Jacs Aberdare.

The local acts all played for free and the venue Jacs also waived their fee, which meant every penny raised from ticket sales could go to the foodbanks.

Local businesses also played their part, donating raffle prizes which helped raise hundreds of pounds. Grey Trees, Penderyn Distillery, Flowers by Joy, Amore restaurant, Ty Newydd country hotel, Mirror Image Salon, Zipworld, Tesco, ASDA all contributed raffle prizes.

The £2300 total is being split between the three Trussell Trust foodbanks covering Rhondda Cynon Taf, with Merthyr Cynon, Pontypridd and Rhondda foodbanks each receiving around £770.

Paying tribute to all those who had been so generous, Cynon Valley MP Beth Winter said,

“I was blown away by the generosity not only of local people who bought a ticket and came along on the night, but also the generous donations from unions, businesses and the brilliant musicians themselves who paid for free”

“It was beautiful to see all different parts of our community come together to show solidarity to those most in need. From each according to their ability, to each according to their needs. That is an approach that is deeply ingrained here in the South Wales Valleys.”

Speaking on behalf of RCT Trades Council, Secretary Jason Richards said,

“It is a disgrace that modern Britain has more foodbanks than McDonalds. I wish there was no need for them, and that everybody had enough to eat but unfortunately that is not the case.”

“We were proud to be a part of this event. Solidarity not charity, that is something we firmly believe in in the trades union movement.”

“I want to thank each of the trade unions for their incredibly generous donations. Thanks to Unite, Unison, BFAWU and my union CWU who all made contributions to ensure local people don’t go hungry in our communities.”

Cleide Correia is the manager of Merthyr Cynon foodbank, said she was “overwhelmed” by the donation which she said had come at a crucial time.

“We are seeing a huge growth in first-time users attending foodbank, many of these people in work, but unable to make ends meet. At the same time, many who used to donate generously are now unable to do so, so the food banks are really struggling.

“This donation will help so many who come through our doors. Well done everyone who organised and took part. We are really grateful. God bless you.”