- 770 three day emergency food boxes given to local people in crisis by Taunton Foodbank in first half of the year – over 40% went to families with children.
- Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust foodbank network show UK-wide foodbank figures are still not decreasing
Over 770 three day emergency food boxes were provided to local people by Taunton foodbank during April – September 2016, compared to 705 during the same period in 2015. An increase of 9%. These boxes were to provide food for 1900 people of whom 800 were children. The top three reasons for foodbank referral were: Benefit delays and changes 34%, Help in the school holidays for families who would normally get free school meals 30%, and low income 17.6%.
Sue Weightman, Foodbank Manager of Taunton Foodbank said:
“Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank. Every week we meet local people like you or me, who have been hit by something unavoidable – such as illness, a delay in welfare payments, an unexpected bill or the additional cost of feeding children in the school holidays – and are unable to afford food. It is really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it most matters, and we’re constantly surprised and overwhelmed by local people’s generosity.
We’re keen to work with individuals, businesses and organisations across the community to help put a stop to local people going hungry – there’s a part for everyone to play. Thank you so much to everyone in Taunton Deane who already donates time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you!”
Foodbank Funding:
The running costs for the foodbank are around £20,000.00 a year, all of which is raised locally to enable them to continue their work. Costs include warehouse space to sort and store donated food; a part-time Foodbank Manager; the purchase of additional food as required due to stock shortages and other overheads like utilities and insurances. The foodbank welcomes any new offers of help with funding – local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank’s work can find out more at https://taunton.foodbank.org.uk/donate“