Harrogate foodbank demand high despite lockdown easing
It had been hoped that fewer families would need help as more returned to work
Last updated 2nd Jul 2021
Foodbanks in Harrogate are still experiencing high demand, despite coronavirus restrictions easing.
Officials at the towns three banks were hoping they'd be having to help fewer families, as people returned to work.
However, volunteers say the number of people in need is still increasing.
Through April and March this year, they fed 630 adults and 319 children.
Click here to find out how to get help from Harrogate District foodbanks.
Dawn Pearson, area manager, said: "We had people who had had jobs, especially in the hospitality industry. Once they'd paid the bills, they didn't have anything left for food.
"We get so many other cases. We get a lot of people with drug abuse that are struggling, people that have come out of prison. There's a whole range of crises really.
"They come in and they're almost embarrassed to come in, and they feel as if it's shame. We just try to make them feel comfortable, and say, 'look, we are all one pay-cheque away from being in the same position, so we're here to help. Don't feel bad.'
"One lady phoned us last week to say it was her six-year-old's birthday and she didn't have money to buy her anything. We rallied around and put her a nice little parcel together with a few little gifts.
"It just breaks your heart really, we're just trying to do our little bit."
Help for families in North Yorkshire
It comes as North Yorkshire County Council has announced help available to families during the summer holidays.
The funding is primarily available to children receiving free school meals, although schools have discretion to provide to other families where it's needed.
The vouchers amount to £75 to cover the length of the summer holiday.