Summary
Didcot Emergency Foodbank in England is changing how it helps people because it is receiving fewer donations. The food bank will now offer food support once a week for six weeks, with a longer wait period before another referral can be made. This change comes as the food bank's spending is higher than its income.
Key Facts
- Didcot Emergency Foodbank is facing a funding shortfall due to decreased donations.
- The food bank was founded in 2009 by volunteers from Didcot Baptist Church and currently has around £10,000 in reserves.
- This year, the food bank has received about £29,000 but spent nearly £60,000 on food.
- The support schedule is changing from twice a week for six weeks to once a week for six weeks, with a longer waiting period for additional help.
- The food bank used to provide more assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic but is now focusing on emergency help.
- Donations to the food bank now consist of 75% cash and 25% food, a reversal from five years ago.
- The food bank expects to support about 6,000 clients this year.
- Official referrals to the food bank can be made by local council hubs, Citizens Advice, schools, medical professionals, and certain charities.
