Food banks and donation services across Sheffield have been under immense pressure as a result of the escalating cost of living crisis and increasing homelessness rates in deprived areas of the city.

Sheffield S6 Foodbank’s annual report revealed that 34, 524 emergency food parcels were provided to people in need between April and September last year.

Chris Walker, 69, the Chair of the Walkley Labour Party and S6 Foodbank Coordinator from Crookes said: “It’s a problem that people in such a rich country have to go hungry and when winter comes up they have to decide between eating and heating, something needs to be done.”

The use of food-banks has been expanding over the years to meet the needs of vulnerable households and individuals.

Despite the heightened demand, the food-bank has been a massive support to struggling families and asylum seekers. 

Jane Wall, Stannington Food Bank Manager, from Stannington, said: “We were very busy during this time, but also tremendously blessed to be part of a community which really helps its own.”

“My hope for vulnerable people who come along is that they will feel welcome and find a place of belonging, where they can share their troubles and hopefully be offered help and support,” she said.

Donations of toiletries, non-perishable food items such as tinned goods as well as cash donations will be of help to those who are struggling.

Mr Walker emphasised how these donations, alongside the council’s household support fund scheme, have been useful but haven’t replaced the effect of benefits cuts.

The S6 Foodbank donation collection, hosted by Walkley Labour, will be held at South Road between 10am and 1pm on Saturday 16 November.

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=963912712437672&set=a.465665105595771

To find out more about Sheffield food banks or how to support them visit Sheffield S6 Foodbank.

To keep up to date with volunteering opportunities, follow S6 Foodbank and @StanningtonFoodbank on Facebook.