Return of popular music event boosts Black Country foodbank

Crowds at Katiesfest

Hundreds of food items and donations of £200 have been handed over to the Black Country Foodbank after live music fans enjoyed the return of a much-loved music festival in a day.

Representatives from the foodbank branch at Our Lady and All Saints Catholic Church in New Road, Stourbridge, have thanked Eddy Morton and Trina Keane, owners at nearby Katie Fitzgerald’s for the contributions during its 18th Katiesfest on Sunday, May 22.  

Eddy and Trina had already raised hundreds of pounds for the foodbank and are also providing confidential monetary support for two families in crisis, hit by rocketing fuel bills.

Audience members at the Enville Street venue’s event were asked to donate if they can afford it, as well as bringing non-perishable food to help families in need.  

Eddy said: “We asked for support and weren’t disappointed. Thanks so much to everyone who came with food to donate. It was very touching to see people care. We cannot sit back and do nothing in the face of massive local need.

“We welcomed a packed audience and it was special, not only to be back in person after having to move temporarily online, but also to make a difference to families using the foodbank.”

Black Country Foodbank helps vulnerable individuals and families in crisis. It provides three days emergency food supplies while a longer-term solution is developed. A spokesman said they were very grateful for Eddy and Trina’s ongoing support.