Nearly 2,000 3-day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis by the Isle of Wight Foodbank during 2016-17, figures released today (Tuesday) show.
Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust foodbank network reveal a total of 1,987 food supply packages were distributed across the Island in 2016-2017, a rise of 110 from 2015-16. A staggering 1,978 children were helped on the Island in 2016-2017.
The local increase is being blamed on low income, benefit delays and benefit changes.
Over the last year, local people have donated nearly 56,000 tonnes of food to the Isle of Wight Foodbank and over 200 people volunteered. Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the Foodbank, enabling the charity to give 3 days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.
As well as providing emergency food, the Isle of Wight Foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the local area. Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including the Isle of Wight Foodbank, are partnering with other agencies to provide additional services such as welfare advice, budgeting help and debt support at the food bank itself, helping people to break out of crisis.
On the Island, the Foodbank has also helped hundreds of families through its holiday scheme, working with local schools to help struggling families through the holidays.
Hannah King, Foodbank Manager of Isle of Wight Foodbank said:
“It is deeply concerning that we are still seeing an increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis on the Island over the last year.
Article continues below this advertisement “Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank. Every week people are referred to us after being hit by something unavoidable – such as illness, a delay in a benefit payment or an unexpected bill – means food is simply unaffordable. It really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in the Isle of Wight. But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.
“Thank you so much to everyone on the Island who already donates time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you!”
