Bournemouth Foodbank has seen a 70% rise in the number of users since 2020
Foodbanks in Dorset face "pressing challenges" and urgently need support this winter to ensure no one goes hungry
Bournemouth Foodbank has launched an urgent appeal for support.
They have handed out more than 120,000 meals to 12,000 different people this year, including 22,000 meals to children.
This year’s figures are a 70% rise from pre-pandemic rates in 2020 and the ‘trend is not slowing down’.
John Saborido from Bournemouth Foodbank said: “A lot of families are resorting to the food banks, because they really don't have the cash in the middle of this cost-of-living crisis.”
We’ve been hearing that the need for support is more pressing than ever as parents are 'going hungry' to ensure their children have enough to eat."
Winter often sees families, who are struggling to make ends meet, face particular hardships with the choice between heating and eating a harsh reality for many.
Mr Saborido shared one example: "We had a lady visit us that said she wasn’t cooking at home because she was terrified of using any electrical appliances and then not being able to pay energy bill. That’s the kind of thing we’re hearing every day.”
Over the festive season, the charity has launched an urgent appeal for donations to continue to support local families.
The charity has seen a “considerable decrease” in the number of donations from the public as many find themselves “strapped for cash”.
They are urgently appealing to the kindness and generosity of the community to help provide food and in turn inspire “hope and stability in these challenging times.”
Donations will allow the food bank to provide immediate relief to families and ensure that no one goes hungry this winter.
Every donation of up to £250 made through its Crowdfunder will be matched by the Aviva Community Fund.
Mr Saborido told us: “The Trussell Trust is campaigning with the government to guarantee certain essentials are available and handed out to those in need.
“This is going to be crucial for us, not only in providing emergency food for people but also help us look at ways we can help people out of this crisis long term.”