Why Horsham Matters' mission extends far beyond food parcels - and the difference it is making to so many local people
Horsham Matters is a wonderful charity that provides an holistic approach to supporting those facing hardship across the district. The High Sheriff of West Sussex Gary Shipton has followed its progress since it was first established 20 years ago under an initiative of Horsham Churches Together. Gary, who is also the Editor At Large of Sussex World and the County Times, visited the organization for an update on its progress.
At its centre in Redkiln Close, Chief Executive Officer Kelvin Glen is clearly proud of the wonderful team of volunteers and colleagues who continue to transform lives through the extraordinary work and compassion of Horsham Matters.
"Whilst our network of 15 weekly foodbanks provides essential emergency food support, our mission extends far beyond providing food parcels. Our goal is not just to respond to crisis, but to help address the root causes of hardship and ultimately work towards a future where foodbanks are no longer needed.
"A key part of this holistic approach is our close collaboration with a wide range of partners across the district. We work alongside local charities, churches, West Sussex County Council, Horsham District Council, and many community organisations to ensure residents can access the right support at the right time. We also maintain strong working relationships with Sussex Police and the District Wardens, enabling us to provide joined-up support for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities."
Horsham Matters' friendly and knowledgeable Outreach and Support team offers confidential, practical advice to help people regain control of their circumstances, including: Maximising household income; Reviewing household spending; Working towards a sustainable budget; Benefits checks to ensure clients receive everything they are entitled to; Signposting and referring people to specialist services and support agencies. Through this work they help Horsham District residents improve their financial resilience, increase household stability, and reduce the risk of future crises.
All of this work is only possible because of the small, agile, and dedicated staff team, supported by an incredible army of 152 volunteers. "Our volunteers contribute across every aspect of the charity, including warehouse operations, food sorting, administration, foodbank sessions, outreach support, and our charity shop. Their commitment, compassion, and generosity make an enormous difference to thousands of local people every year."
Karen Merriner, Horsham Matters’ Outreach and Support Manager explained that since January 2026, their Foodbank and Support Services have continued to make a significant difference to the lives of people across the Horsham District.
“From January 2026 to date, we have distributed 2,605 food parcels to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity across the district. This support has helped ensure that local people facing financial hardship have access to essential food and household items during challenging times.
“Alongside emergency food provision, we have provided tailored outreach and community support to residents facing more complex circumstances – 83 complex cases have required intensive, ongoing support and advocacy, with our team providing practical guidance and regular engagement to help individuals navigate difficult situations.
“A further 127 people have received advice, information, and signposting to specialist services, helping them access the support they need at the right time.
“Our support work has generated £68,400 in client gains so far during the 2026 calendar year. This includes helping people access benefits, grants, and other forms of financial assistance, improving their financial resilience and reducing the pressures associated with the cost of living.”
She said that the support provided is delivering tangible improvements in people's lives:
75% of those accessing support reported improved life experiences and outcomes.
Access to furniture and household items has contributed to improved living conditions, dignity, and stability at home.
58% reported improvements in their social wellbeing and increased social interaction.
75% experienced an increase in participation in activities, helping to reduce isolation and improve overall wellbeing.
"Thanks to the funding received, we were able to provide a single mother of two with a washing machine, helping to ease some of the practical challenges she was facing. In addition, she is receiving ongoing support from an Outreach Advisor, who is working with her to address her debt issues and improve her financial stability.”
"She told us: ‘The support has helped massively and has given me one less thing to worry about. For the first time in a long while, I can see light at the end of the tunnel. The additional help I've received has put me back on the right track and given me the focus and motivation to keep moving forward and get things sorted.’
“A gentleman had been accessing the food bank’s services for some time and reported to us he was experiencing significant financial hardship. During a conversation with a Community Support Advisor during a Foodbank session, we were able to explore his circumstances in more detail. It was discovered that he wasn’t managing his finances well and budgeting support was provided:
"He said: ‘Before receiving support, I never really understood how to budget or manage my bills. I would often just go with the flow and run out of money quickly. With Grace's help, I'm learning how to make the most of my income and plan ahead. For the first time, I feel like I'm taking control of my finances, and it's given me confidence for the future, especially when I start working’."