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An independent food bank in a north Yorkshire town has been transformed thanks to funding from a housing developer.

Westway Open Arms community hub, part of Eastfield Holy Nativity Church, has expanded its food bank facility to offer increased support to people in Eastfield, Scarborough.

Sanctuary funded the refurbishment through its MORE! programme, which supports people and initiatives in communities where it is developing new homes.

The project marks Sanctuary’s completion of four new bungalows on nearby Link Walk, which have been let for affordable rent in partnership with Scarborough Borough Council. 

With the support of Sanctuary’s contractor, Tandem Contracts, the centre’s previously jam-packed sorting room has been redecorated and fitted with new racks to store supplies efficiently.

Bernie Brown, Westway Open Arms’ centre manager, said: “We’re currently supporting over 100 families each month and putting together 200 parcels of food and toiletries, so we need to keep organised.  

“Our fabulous group of volunteers are working really hard to support local people in need, so the improvements are greatly appreciated.”

Tim Wray, Sanctuary’s development manager, added: “The hub does so much for the Eastfield community, and it has been a pleasure to find a way we can help them.”