A HUGE rise in the number of people needing an emergency food parcel supply has left Stratford foodbank’s shelves bare.
The foodbank used to feed some 110 people a month, but that figure has recently rocketed to more than 160.
Organisers say they believe benefit delays and low income are to blame for the rise.
Manager Marion Homer said: “In the two years I have been Foodbank manager I have never seen our shelves so empty, not because we are receiving less food donations, but because we are seeing a lot more people seeking our help. While we are not in any immediate danger of turning anyone away, it would be good if we could restock our warehouse.
“We are currently giving out more food than we are receiving which is obviously not tenable over many more months.”
To combat the surge in users, an emergency food drive is being held at Morrisons on April 21 and 22.
People are being asked to donate long life UHT juice, tinned vegetables, tinned potatoes and instant mashed potato, rice pudding, tinned fruit, and biscuits.
Volunteers are needed to help out in two hourly shifts at the food drive.
The foodbank operates from a cabin in Tesco car park on Birmingham Road and gives a nutritiously-balanced parcel to those who have received a voucher from a professional such as a doctor or social worker.
Email [email protected] to find out more about volunteering.
