Foodbank appeal as more hit financially

PEOPLE in Swansea are being urged to continue to make donations to the network of food banks in the city as more families turn to them for support.

Food banks say they are experiencing rising demand with more people hit financially as a result of the coronavirus pandemic.

They are appealing for basic food and household items so they can continue to support those in need.

Cllr Alyson Pugh, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Better Communities, said: “Due to the pandemic many more people and families are struggling to cope financially due to lost income, lost jobs and rising costs.

“Swansea’s food banks provide a vital lifeline within our communities for when people are in crisis.

“The support from individuals and businesses during the pandemic has been amazing so far but as we prepare for a challenging winter ahead, with restrictions tightening to help keep people safe, Swansea’s food banks will need your support to ensure they are able to help more people and families when they need it most.”

Food banks are in need of donations of essential items such as rice, pasta, UHT Milk, tinned meat and fish, vegetables, tinned fruit, long life fruit juice, long life bread, instant coffee, pet food, nappies and baby food, toiletries and cleaning products such as bleach, as well as other food and household items.

Cllr Pugh added: “Sadly, it is highly likely that in the weeks and months ahead the pressure on foodbanks will only increase and they will need more donations throughout winter.

“I know many people have been hit financially in Swansea this year but if people are able to donate then they will be supporting others in their own communities who desperately need this support.”

People can donate items at most supermarkets with donation bins usually positioned close to checkouts and exits.

Alternatively, people can drop off donations at their local food bank.

Visit www.swansea. gov.uk/foodbanks for details of opening times and when the public can drop off donations.

Due to the pandemic many more people and families are struggling to cope financially due to lost income, lost jobs and rising costs. Swansea’s food banks provide a vital lifeline within our communities for when people are in crisis

- Cllr Alyson Pugh, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Better Communities