- 2,108 three day emergency food supplies given to local people in crisis by Carmarthen Foodbank in 2016-17 – over 600 went to children
- Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust foodbank network show UK-wide foodbank figures are still not decreasing
- Local increase due to people struggling with continued issues of low income, benefit delays and benefit changes.
Over 2,000 three day emergency food supplies were provided to local people in crisis by Carmarthen foodbank during 2016-17, compared to 1,848 in 2015-16. Of this number, 602 went to children. The top three reasons for foodbank referral were: low income, benefit delay, and benefit change.
Over the last year, local people have donated 21,349.9 kilograms of food to Carmarthen Foodbank, and over 35 people have volunteered their time. Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling us to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.
As well as providing emergency food, Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen Foodbank, are partnering with other agencies to provide additional services such as the ‘Eat Well, Spend Less’ course, to help people to break out of crisis.
Judy Pawluk, Foodbank Manager of Carmarthen 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 in Carmarthen. 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 – which 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. We hope that one day there will be no need for us in Carmarthen, 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 in Carmarthen who already donates time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you!”
Despite generous donations of food, there are many hidden costs to running the foodbank. For example Carmarthen Foodbank is currently in short supply of carrier bags. That’s why Carmarthen Foodbank is making an appeal for any donations of used carrier bags. It’s just one more small thing that can make a big difference.