At Horsham Matters, our volunteers are the heartbeat of everything we do.
Recently, we asked a foodbank sorting volunteer a few questions about what brought them to us, and what keeps them here. What they shared stayed with us…and I think it will stay with you too.
When I asked what first inspired them to volunteer, their answer was quietly powerful:
“I wanted to become a volunteer to help break down the stigma often associated with food insecurity and to contribute positively to the local community. Life can change unexpectedly for any of us, and we may all face circumstances we never envisaged.”
That phrase, life can change unexpectedly for any of us, is something I think we can all relate to. It’s exactly the spirit that sits at the heart of what Horsham Matters tries to be: a place without judgement, where anyone can walk through the door and be treated with dignity.
I asked what keeps them motivated, and again, their words were simple but striking:
“Seeing the positive difference the Foodbank makes to members of the local community keeps me motivated. Knowing that a welcoming environment, practical support, and a listening ear can help people feel respected, valued, and less alone reinforces the importance of the work.”
A listening ear. It sounds like such a small thing, doesn’t it? And yet, across our 16 weekly foodbank sessions and two Connecting Cafés, that human connection is often what people tell us matters most.
On the difference Horsham Matters makes in the community, they put it beautifully:
“Beyond providing food, it helps reduce isolation, offers human connection, and signposts people to additional support, strengthening the wellbeing and resilience of the local community.”
That really does sum it up. The food is vital, of course it is. But what we’re really building, session by session, is a community of people who feel seen and supported.
What moved me most, though, was hearing how volunteering has personally affected them:
“Being involved with Horsham Matters has been both humbling and rewarding, deepening my appreciation for the strength and resilience within our community. Seeing the difference that practical help, a welcoming space, and simple human connection can make has been a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness and a listening ear can have a meaningful impact on someone’s day.”
I think that’s what so many of our volunteers discover — that they come to give, and find themselves receiving something unexpected in return. A reminder of what community really means.
When I asked them to share a quote that sums up what Horsham Matters means to them, they didn’t hesitate:
“Making a difference every day through support, kindness, and respect for all.” That’s it, really. That’s us.
If you’d like to be part of what this volunteer, and so many others like them are helping to build here in Horsham, we’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re interested in volunteering, visiting one of our Connecting Cafés, or simply finding out more about what we offer, please do get in touch!
Every act of kindness counts. Every volunteer matters. And every person who walks through our doors matters too.
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