Foodbank supplies 1,134 meals during January as demand continues to rise
THE demand for support from Leek and District Foodbank is increasing year-on-year, latest figures show.
During January, 126 people were fed by the foodbank, which operates from Leek Gateway Church in West Street.
This included 73 adults and 53 children. A total of 1,134 meals were supplied.
In addition, the foodbank distributed 319kg to Manna House, which supports homeless people.
The total quantity of food distributed was 3063kg, with a value of £5,360. The latest figures show an increase of 67 per cent on the same month last year.
Project co-ordinator, Ian Smith, said:
“Once again, the main reason for the foodbank use is low income, followed by sickness.
“January turned out to be one of the wettest months on record, with Leek hitting the headlines with over seven inches of rain falling in the month.
“Despite the inclement weather, we continued to receive good donations of food enabling us to meet the demand, so we give thanks to all who gave.
“We have a mission to fulfil and each and every one of us, whether volunteering from home or having a presence in the foodbank, will do our best to fulfil it and make sure that no one in our community goes hungry through lack of food.”
The foodbank is currently in need of household items including small sizes of washing powder and washing up liquid. Sponge puddings are also required.
At the moment, the foodbank has adequate stocks of baked beans and soup, so help out by not donating these at this time. Please also do not donate Baby Infant Formula Milk as the foodbank is not allowed to distribute it.
If you have a friend, relative or know of someone who cannot afford to buy food, refer them to any of the following to obtain foodbank vouchers:
■ Citizens Advice – Email advice@ leekcab.cabnet.org.uk; telephone 0300 330 2164 (Monday and Wednesday 9am to 11.30am; Tuesday 9.30am to 12pm).
■ National Helpline – 0808 208 2138 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm).
■ Staffordshire Moorlands District Council Helpline – 0345 605 3010
■ Staffordshire County Council Helpline – 0300 111 8050.
If you are a donor, the foodbank would like to thank you for your help and remind you that they can still accept your donations on Tuesday and Friday between 10am and 12pm (please ring the bell and maintain social distancing).
Alternatively, you may use any of the permanent collection points which are still available at various locations.
There are listed at https:// leekdistrict.org.uk/give- help/donatefood/ together with the latest urgent needs.