Fewer people relying on foodbanks in East Ayrshire, according to figures

There has been a reduction in the number of people relying on foodbanks in East Ayrshire.

In the first six months of this year, 1,203 people received emergency food parcels – compared to 1,791 in 2016.

A spokesperson from East Ayrshire foodbank said, “The East Ayrshire Foodbank has made positive progress in challenging food poverty in our communities. We are one of the few foodbanks to achieve reduction in usage.

“This has been possible by taking a partnership approach to addressing food crisis and challenge the underlying drivers of food poverty. Raising awareness about referral agencies, who they are, what they do and building our knowledge of the tools available to all our foodbanks distribution points that may be of help to our clients

“The need for foodbanks does not arise because of a lack of food within communities or society as a whole but rather as a result of direct financial poverty particularly for the most vulnerable groups within our community.

“The demand for foodbank services is, in many instances, influenced by external factors and we are very aware that the roll out of Universal Credits has the potential to further increase the need for our services.

“We are very grateful to everyone who has supported East Ayrshire Foodbank, without their generosity we would not be in a position to continue to deliver this much needed service. At present we are low on donations of stock we need to put together a package that provides three meals a day.”

Donations can be dropped off at our main office in Belford Mill. 16 Brewery Road, Kilmarnock, KA1 3GZ or to arrange collection for larger donations please call 01563 574000