Over 1343 food parcels were provided to local people by Nantwich Foodbank in the 2015/16 financial year, compared to 1224 in 2014/15, an increase of 9.7%.
The top three reasons people were referred to us were low income, benefit delays and supporting vulnerable children over school holidays (children who usually get free school meals during term time)
Over the last year, local people have generously donated 19 tonnes of food and local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support, enabling us to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.
As well as providing emergency food, Nantwich Foodbank has also provided essentials such as feminine hygiene, toiletries, nappies and wipes to families who are struggling, and signposted them to other services in the local area.
Jane Emery Nantwich Foodbank Manager explains: We are still seeing an increase in the number of people being referred for an emergency three day food supply, with a 9.3% increase in this last year. It is all too easy when you look at figures to forget the real people behind the statistics.
Recently we supported a family who had their benefits stopped due to one member gaining employment. Unfortunately they family member was on a Zero hours contract, earning the minimum wage which left the family worse off . We were able to support them until the benefits department reassessed the situation.
Examples such as this show our foodbank is so vital. We are very grateful for the ongoing support of the community, and hope that one day there will be no need for us in Nantwich. But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.
Our running costs have increased over the last year and we have moved into a fit for purpose store room which now means we need to pay rent.
We’re always grateful of any financial support. Could you sponsor a shelf in our new store room or support our 200 club? Find out how you can help.”