Shocking new statistics from North Bristol Foodbank

North Bristol Foodbank has revealed that between April 1st 2017 and March 31st 2018, they provided 4,149 three-day emergency food supplies to local people in crisis.

This compares with 3,740 in the previous year – an 11% increase – and a total of 1,664 of the donations were made to children.

North Bristol Foodbank is a member of The Trussell Trust’s network which has today reported a UK-wide increase foodbank use. This year, national three-day emergency supply packages totalled 1,332,952 – a 13% increase on last year.

The team believes the local increase is due to people struggling with continued issues with benefit payments and low paid work. As part of a national network campaigning for change, the foodbank is working hard to offer practical emergency support to help prevent people affected going hungry, whilst simultaneously participating in vital research and raising awareness about the issues local people are facing.

Matt Dobson, Foodbank Manager of North Bristol Foodbank, says, “We don’t want to be here forever. No one in North Bristol should need a foodbank’s help and we want to see an end to local people needing emergency food at all. It doesn’t have to be this way – with a benefits system that catches people before they fall into crisis, and secure work that provides people with enough money to cover the cost of essentials, this is possible. But until that time, we’ll continue to provide vital support when it matters most – we’re dedicated to ensuring that people in our community with no money for food are able to access emergency support, and that has only been possible in the last year because of the incredible generosity shown by local people in donating food, time and funds. Thank you.”

To find out how you can help by volunteering or donating food, visit the North Bristol Foodbank website.