A Brecon opticians has raised £750 for its local foodbank, supporting vulnerable individuals and families in the community.

The team at Specsavers Brecon organised a series of creative fundraisers throughout last year to collect donations for Brecon Foodbank. These included a ‘Guess how many contact lenses in a jar?’ challenge, a fancy-dress walk up Pen y Fan, a Halloween bake sale and a Christmas hamper raffle.

Thanks to the generosity of customers and determined efforts by staff members, the store successfully raised £750 to help the foodbank continue its vital work.

Rachel Stephens, optician director at Specsavers Brecon, said: “We want to give back to our local community and felt passionate about supporting Brecon Foodbank, which plays such an important role in helping people during difficult times.

“Thanks to the dedication of our team and the kindness of our customers, we’re thrilled to have raised £750. We hope it makes a meaningful difference to those who rely on the foodbank’s essential services.”

Brecon Foodbank has been a lifeline for the local community since it was established in 2014 by local churches and community groups. Operating from the St John’s Centre on Pendre Close, the foodbank provides a warm and welcoming environment where people in crisis can access seven days of nutritionally balanced emergency food, toiletries and additional support.

In 2024, Brecon Foodbank supplied 858 food parcels to individuals in need, feeding 1,525 people in the local area. Since March 2023, a satellite foodbank has also operated in Hay-on-Wye, extending the reach of this vital service.

A spokesperson for Brecon Foodbank said: "We are extremely grateful to Specsavers Brecon for choosing us as the charity they supported during 2024.

“The team has gone above and beyond for us, using unique ideas to raise money and much-needed food. They have raised awareness about who we are and how we can help. Thank you for all your support.”

Specsavers Brecon hopes to continue supporting initiatives that help vulnerable families and individuals in Brecon and the surrounding areas and will be selecting a new charity to support throughout 2025.

To learn more about Brecon Foodbank, including how to donate or access support, visit https://brecon.foodbank.org.uk

To find out more information about Specsavers in Brecon, request an appointment or browse the online store, visit https://www.specsavers.co.uk/stores/brecon

Specsavers also provides a Home Visits service for customers unable to visit stores due to disability or illness.