Waterloo Foodbank provides food, essentials and wraparound care to local people all year round but at Christmas the support we provide is needed more than ever.

As the winter nights draw in, many in our community will struggle to afford the basics, making difficult decisions such as whether to heat their homes or eat.

Last Christmas we provided 6193 food parcels including feeding 2431 children and we expect this number to increase this year.

Our support provides a lifeline to these people, ensuring they have the basics they need as well as working to lift them out of poverty through advice work, campaigning for change, and holistic community support.

Just last week we had a mum visit the foodbank to collect a parcel for her and her 6 month old baby. We had a long conversation over a cup of tea and discovered that she had no warm clothes for her baby as she was having to prioritise her money elsewhere, choosing whether to buy formula for her baby or new sleepsuits. We were able to provide food and warm, winter clothing for her baby girl and signpost her to other support services.

She said: “I am so grateful for the extra support I was able to receive at the foodbank. It's a huge weight off my mind knowing that I'll be able to keep my daughter warm over winter and I can return to talk to volunteers anytime over a warm drink, share my difficulties and ask for more support.”

Anything you can give goes to ensure that we can continue to provide this vital support in our community. Thank you!