Food bank parcels on the increase

THE number of emergency food parcels handed out to people in crisis in Widnes increased last year, figures have shown.

Widnes Foodbank provided a total of 1,137 three day food supplies in 2016-17, compared to 911 in 2015-16.

The top three reasons for foodbank referral were benefit delay, benefit change, and low income.

Over the past year, 22,260kgs of food have been donated to Widnes Foodbank and more than 150 people currently volunteer.

Schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling the facility to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.

As well as providing emergency food, Widnes Foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the area.

Widnes Foodbank project co-ordinator Clare Bedford said: “It is deeply concerning that we are still seeing an increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis in Widnes over the last year. Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank.

“Every week people are referred to us after being hit by something unavoidable – such as illness, a delay in a benefit payment or an unexpected bill – means food is simply unaffordable.

“It really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in Widnes.

“But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.

“Thank you so much to everyone in Widnes who already donates time, food and money to help local people.”