When people are referred to Wandsworth Foodbank for emergency food and support, many also can't afford to top up the credit on their gas or electricity prepayment meter - leaving them at risk of being cut off.

For instance they might be waiting five weeks for their first payment of Universal Credit, having become too sick to work, or fled domestic abuse. Or their health or family circumstances might mean they're trying to get by on a social security payment that doesn't cover the cost of essentials, like food and fuel.

Your gift today will enable people referred to our food bank to receive a £49 emergency fuel voucher, alongside emergency food and advice. You'll be helping people to top up their prepayment meter and therefore have enough gas or electricity to have hot water, cook hot food, and put the heating on a little when it's cold.

Your generosity will make a real difference to local people in hardship, like this mother who was referred to Wandsworth Foodbank last winter and received a fuel voucher:

Nearly one-third of people referred to Wandsworth Foodbank are unpaid carers, like this mother, and two-thirds of people referred have a long-term health condition or disability. Most aren't able to take on paid work to increase their very low incomes at the point we meet them, but it's especially important that they're able to keep warm.

These emergency fuel vouchers are issued directly to people referred to our food bank who have little or no credit on their prepayment meters. The vouchers can only be used for gas and electricity, and it's a rapid and effective way to help people at a very difficult time.

Thank you so much for any gift you're able to give today to help local people and familes have a warmer winter.