Hard Christmas for Grimsby Foodbank
Rock Foundation in Grimsby said it's struggling even more than usual this year.
Cost of living pressures are making this Christmas even tougher than the last, according to a Grimsby foodbank.
Rock Foundation has said the pressure on finances is meaning more people are coming to them for support, while fewer feel able to donate.
Rock Foundation CEO Pam Hodge said: "We're very desperate for goodies like chocolates, biscuits, Christmas puddings and things like that for our food parcels. We haven't had as many things coming in this year, but we really appreciate that it's a hard time for everybody and I want to say a big thank you to everyone in Grimsby for the way they support us."
Christmas preparation has been going on since August, with all of 2023 posing a challenge for the foodbank. Rock Foundation struggled earlier in the year, meaning it started the winter with fewer reserves than it would usually have, meaning it's straining to meet the growing need.
Pam Hodge said "You can't just say it's people on benefits, or people on the streets using the foodbank - it's everybody. We've got a lot of people on low incomes, zero hours contracts, we've got asylum seekers - we've got all sorts of people."
The charity also provides a safe, warm space during the winter months for those who need company or need to be directed to other support services. This year, they have brought in a hairdresser to give some of their clients a fresh look for the festive season.
Pam Hodge said: "One person came in the other week, hadn't had their hair cut in years and years. The hairdresser gave him a short back and sides and he was like a child at Christmas - he was so overwhelmed."