The use of foodbanks is on the rise and they now play a vital role in many people's lives. Between April and September 2017 there was an 11% increase in the use of 3 day emergency food supplies distributed in the South West 50,606 packages were issued, 18,280 of which were for children.
There are many reasons in which people may seek help from foodbanks. In 2016/2017 the North Bristol foodbank found the top 3 reasons people were referred were due to benefit delay (24.6%), benefit change (23.4%) and low income (20.3%).
The North Bristol foodbank helps those in crisis by providing emergency food. Foodbanks rely on donations from the public which are then sorted and packed into boxes ready to be given to those in need. Only those who are referred to foodbanks by a care professional such as their doctor, social care worker or health visitor are able to use them. Not only do they offer food packages but they also provide support and help signpost people with long term problems.
There will be a collection for North Bristol foodbank on February 24th at the Memorial Stadium. Items which they are desperately in need of are;
- · tinned meat
- · UHT milk
- · tinned sponge puddings
- · tinned vegetables
- · tinned spaghetti
- · instant mash
- · rice pudding
- · nappies
- · tea and coffee
Any non-perishable food items and toiletries are also appreciated. So please come along, find us near the Memorial Gates and give generously to help those in need.
Rovers' midfielder maestro Chris Lines has already been showing his support by popping into the food bank and making a donation this week, as pictured below!
