West Northumberland Food Bank is bracing for a significant increase in demand ahead of the winter, driven by the cost-of-living crisis, pensioners losing their Winter Fuel Allowance, and an alarming rise in child poverty.

The food bank, which was established 12 years ago to provide essential support to people in the region facing hardship, is seeing a significant rise in people turning to them for help.

The increased demand is impacting people of all ages, from pensioners and working-age adults to families with children, all of whom are struggling to cope with the pressures of the current cost-of-living crisis.

Sam, who runs the food bank, shared the scale of the challenge they are up against:

"We're struggling to keep up with the increase in demand. Last year, we helped over 1,800 individuals, and this year, we're expecting hundreds more. Many of those reaching out to us for the first time are pensioners who have lost their Winter Fuel Allowance and are terrified of facing the cold months without heat. We’re seeing families that are barely scraping by, working-age adults who simply can’t make ends meet, and children growing up in poverty. It’s heartbreaking, and we need the community’s help to continue supporting them."

The food bank must prioritise financial donations over food donations this winter as they are now spending thousands of pounds each month to supplement the food that is donated. With energy prices soaring and essentials becoming more expensive, financial contributions are crucial to ensuring that families, pensioners, and individuals receive the support they need.

Sam explained that one of the key concerns for the food bank this winter is pensioner poverty. Last year, the food bank supported 67 pensioners, and this winter, they expect this number to more than double as more and more people turn to them for help.

Child poverty is also on the rise, with larger families struggling the most. West Northumberland Food Bank has already supported over 100 more children this year than last, and they anticipate this number to double in the coming months.

Financial donations are vital to keeping West Northumberland Food Bank running and ensuring their delivery vans stay on the road. These vans play a crucial role, delivering food, toiletries and essential supplies to around 100 households each week.

As the demand for support continues to rise they are calling on the local community to step forward and help meet the growing need. Sam emphasised, "We're seeing more people reach out to us than ever before, often at their most vulnerable, and financial donations are the best way to ensure we can continue helping them. Donations from the community will help us provide the food, energy vouchers, and essential items people desperately need to get through the winter months."

To support West Northumberland Food Bank this winter, visit their website at www.westnorthumberlandfoodbank.org.uk/donate