Neath-based construction company, J.G. Hale Construction, and housing developer, Coastal Housing – partners on an exciting and innovative new development in the heart of Neath town centre – have combined forces to provide much-needed funds for one local charity.

J.G. Hale Construction are currently working for Coastal Housing on a development of 12 residential dwellings and six commercial units, being built as part of Coastal Housing’s plans to deliver low-cost homes and affordable commercial properties across Wales.

As part of the partnership’s combined commitment towards delivering community benefits in line with the project, the collaboration has donated £600 to Neath Foodbank at a time when the charity has seen a dramatic rise in people seeking help from its services.

The funds will be used to bolster the Foodbank’s existing food parcels, making meat items available for those in need.

Located within the Neath town centre’s Orchard Place Baptist Church, Neath Foodbank provided 2,091 emergency 3-day food parcels to the local community during 2020.

The Trussell Trust has reported a 61% rise in the demand for Foodbanks across the UK, since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, with over half of new clients needing emergency food parcels for the first time.

Jonathan Hale, Chairman at J.G. Hale Construction, said:

“With the rise in socio-economic challenges, resulting from Covid-19, it has been important to reassess how we deliver our community benefits, ensuring that local projects and not-for-profits with the greatest need, such as Neath Foodbank, are supported within our local communities.”

Clare Watkins, Community Benefits Officer at Coastal Housing, said:

“Neath foodbank and similar organisations provide a vital service to people living in the area. We know today's contribution from Coastal and Hale will allow them to continue their work and enhance the supplies of donated items with fresh essentials, ensuring everyone has access to well-balanced, nutritious food, important to their overall health.”