Volunteers at Didcot Emergency Foodbank in South England have reported a significant decline in donations, prompting changes to their service offerings. Established in 2009 through the efforts of Didcot Baptist Church volunteers, the food bank currently has reserves of approximately £10,000. Manager Andrew Snell highlighted a substantial financial gap, indicating that while the food bank has received £29,000 in cash donations this year, expenditures on food have approached £60,000.
To adapt to the situation, the food bank has modified its support structure. Previously, clients could access assistance twice a week for six weeks, followed by a three-month break. This has now been adjusted to once a week for six weeks, with a more extended six-month gap before new referrals. Snell mentioned that the organization is reverting to its original emergency food support model, which primarily serves those in urgent need rather than families who are managing but facing financial challenges.
Currently, around 75% of donations come in the form of cash, contrasting with five years prior when physical food donations accounted for a greater share. Snell noted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, community support was substantial, leading to a higher reserve, but this has since diminished.
Despite the changes, Didcot Emergency Foodbank anticipates supporting approximately 6,000 clients in the current year. Snell expressed a desire to eventually restore more comprehensive support services, contingent on an increase in donations. The food bank is collaborating with various local organizations, including the South Oxfordshire District Council’s community hub and other charities, for client referrals.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c749d924j8do?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss