MOSSLEY Foodbank has launched an appeal for donations as demand in the area increases.
Their shelves are almost empty and it is a stark reminder that food poverty is a very real situation experienced by people living in the communities around us.
Working people are turning more and more to foodbanks as the cost of living crisis sends bills soaring to previously unknown levels.
The stereotypical image of people who queue up for handouts so they can eat is someone who relies on benefits for money.
But with utility bills going through the roof, people who hold down a regular job are having to use the facilities in Tameside as they face a decision of ‘heat or eat.’
Foodbanks in the borough are reporting increases of more than 50 per cent higher than they used to serve.
All because people’s purses are being stretched to – and in many cases beyond – the limit.
And with the increase in demand comes the need for an increase in donations. After delivering a large number of emergency parcels to the community, Mossley Foodbank’s shelves are almost bare.
Shoppers are being urged to put some extra items in their baskets while buying essential groceries to help support local food banks.
Lindsey Tweed knows more than most just how people are turning to foodbanks through her work with Mossley’s.
“Our numbers are going up,” she said. “And pretty much the only reason for the increase is bills going up. People are struggling and we’re seeing more working people come to us, not just those on benefits.”
The foodbank based at The Rowans in Mossley is particularly short of tinned items especially meat, fish and spaghetti and fruit and vegetables as well as long life milk, chocolate biscuits and snacks.
You can find Mossley Foodbank at Mossley Youth Base, The Rowans, Mossley, OL5 9DR every Thursday between 9am and 12pm.
They are also on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MossleyFoodBank.UK
There are donation points at all Mossley Churches, The Billy Goat pub, Life’s A Beach, Mossley Co-op and Emmaus for anybody wishing to give outside of the foodbank opening times