Taunton Foodbank was able to provide emergency food and Christmas hampers to hundreds of local people facing hunger in the lead up to Christmas thanks to generous support from the people of Taunton Deane.
Over 8 tonnes of food were donated to the foodbank in December giving us ample stocks to provide 569 three day emergency food supplies to local people in crisis in the run up to Christmas of which 243 went to children.
Sue Weightman, Foodbank Manager at Taunton Foodbank said: “We hope that one day there will be no need for a foodbank in Taunton Deane but whilst our help is needed we will ensure people referred receive a non-judgmental welcome, space to be heard and the best support possible. We couldn’t keep the foodbank’s doors open without local people as we rely on donations to make sure everyone receives a nutritionally balanced parcel of emergency food. Thank you so much to everyone who has donated food, money or time to offer some help and hope to people when it is most needed. We have seen an incredible response from people across Taunton Deane over the last month and are so grateful for, and humbled by, your generosity. Our food stocks have been given a huge boost and we now have plenty of food to last us through the cold winter months. Thank you all.”
Mark Ward, Interim Chief Executive at The Trussell Trust, said: “Last month foodbanks met thousands of people who would otherwise have faced going hungry at Christmas. No one should be unable to afford food, at any time of year. As we look ahead to the New Year, against a backdrop of record foodbank referrals, we’re committed to working towards a future where there is no need for foodbanks. Together with our foodbank network, we’ll ensure emergency food and help are available for anyone referred whilst at the same time challenging why people are being thrown into crisis in the first place.”
To make a donation or find out how to help Taunton foodbank, please visit https://taunton.foodbank.org.uk/.