As new figures show a 13% increase in foodbank use in just six months, compared to this time last year, Ruddington’s local Foodbank is launching its Christmas Appeal.
Clifton NG11 Foodbank is one of Nottingham’s busiest – and is preparing for a festive rush with a difference – from families worried about how to get through Christmas debt-free. NG11 Foodbank – which covers Clifton, West Bridgford and surrounding villages – is launching its annual, seasonal appeal amid fears that changes leading to delays to benefits payments will impact more low income families this year.
Organisers are calling for donations of food, as well as gifts, as they aim to bring some festive cheer to those who are struggling financially. Gifts for teenagers, especially boys and young men are needed, as are toiletries and pet items such as dog coats.
Wendy White, NG11 Foodbank manger says: “I am always amazed by how generous our community and local businesses can be when we ask for help. Please continue to help vulnerable families with your donations, as we are seeing a rising level of need for our services. Foodbanks typically receive more referrals for emergency support during the second half of the financial year, raising concerns that foodbank use this winter will rise further, as hardship experienced annually during the colder months is compounded by more people left waiting at least five weeks for benefit payments.”
The foodbank provides a 3 day emergency food supply to people in crisis, who have been referred for support. “People need to know we are here to help, and we welcome everyone, we don’t judge,” says Wendy. “Many of our volunteers have been in similar circumstances and so we know that most people need advice and signposting to the right organisations. The first step is to go to the Citizens Advice with recent evidence of financial difficulty and then they refer genuine cases to us. Last year we met a single mum who found herself with her two small boys on the fourth floor of a temporary hostel. We made sure she had the right information, signposting, some clothes through Share-wear and of course food. Most importantly though we had time to listen, and she still pops by to tell us how she is getting on.”
The NG11 Foodbank is part of the national Trussell Trust network and, as such, receives advice, support and regular statistics from the Trust to help run and manage the organisation. Based in The Hope Centre on Southchurch Drive in Clifton, the project has developed to provide more than emergency food. Events throughout the year, including the school holiday breakfast club, take pressure off hard-pressed families.
Ruddington collection points for donations can be found in the Co-op, Honeycomb Charity Shop and St Peter’s Rooms. Financial support is also welcome.
Additionally, on Saturday 8th December, there will be collections in both Co-op and Sainsbury’s in Ruddington. Volunteer Jill Reedman told us: “The winter months, and especially Christmastime, are particularly hard for people living in poverty. Increased expenditure on gas and electricity can mean having to choose between food and warmth. Ruddington shoppers have donated generously in previous years and we hope to do well again this year. Our volunteers will be collecting in Ruddington supermarkets between 9am and 3pm on Saturday 8th December, so please come and say hello! Any donations of non-perishable foodstuffs are welcome but we will be giving out lists of suggested items if you would like one.”
Anyone living in Ruddington who is unable to provide enough food for themselves, or their family, can be referred to the NG11 Foodbank. The volunteers are friendly and welcoming, and the Foodbank at The Hope Centre is open every Tuesday and Saturday from 9.30am to 11am. You can also ‘phone them on 07538 916757.
{Top photo: Carole Ellingham, Theresa Jones and Sue Hands of the NG11 Foodbank}
