Scherpenheuvel-Zichem – The food bank in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem, operated by the non-profit organization Houden van Mensen, serves 300 local residents and faces an urgent need for a new location as its current site on Basilieklaan will close in December 2025, reports 24brussels.
The food bank, which distributes parcels monthly, has been functioning from the old post office building until its recent sale. With the lease expiring in less than a year, volunteers must find suitable new premises that can accommodate their needs.
For months, the team has scoured the city for a new site equipped with storage and distribution capabilities but has yet to find a viable solution. This critical situation is creating anxiety among the volunteers and families reliant on the service.
What future awaits Scherpenheuvel food bank serving 300 by 2025?
The Scherpenheuvel-Zichem city council is supporting the food bank’s search for a new location. Alderman for Social Affairs Arlette Sannen (CD&V) emphasized that finding a suitable rental property in the area is challenging. “We certainly won’t leave them out in the cold. But it’s not easy, because there are few rental properties in Scherpenheuvel-Zichem. Moreover, the food bank needs quite a bit of space,” she stated.
“They need to be able to accommodate eight freezers and a cold room at the new location,” the alderman noted.
Furthermore, Sannen added that ample shelving would also be required. The council is exploring options beyond the private rental market, including potential sites under the church policy plan, should they meet necessary specifications.
While discussions continue to determine how the food bank can operate moving forward, the city may provide financial support to ensure service continuity if an acceptable location is not secured by year-end. This funding could assist with rent, allowing the food bank to persist in its mission of aiding 300 residents.
“Although we first have to consider that within the multi-year plan we are still developing,” Sannen added.
Founded more than a decade ago, the Scherpenheuvel-Zichem food bank has adapted to increasing demand due to rising living costs, distributing food parcels to local families and individuals monthly since 2012. The need for such services is more crucial than ever as the community grapples with ongoing economic challenges.
