Colchester Foodbank helps record-breaking number of people

The foodbank, which usually reaches double figures in terms of people coming through the door, hit 43 referrals in one day.

A week into the New Year and things have gone back to a steady pace, but manager Michael Beckett said there was still a lot to do.

Thanks to community support, they managed to provide emergency food parcels as well as additional seasonal treats.

He added: "We hope one day there will be no need for a foodbank in the Colchester area but while our help is needed we will ensure people referred receive a non-judgmental welcome, space to be heard and the best support possible.

"We couldn’t keep the foodbank’s doors open without local people as we rely on donations to make sure everyone receives a nutritionally balanced parcel of emergency food.

“Thank you so much to everyone who has donated food, money or time to offer some help and hope to people when it is most needed.

"We have seen an incredible response from people and are so grateful for, and humbled by, their generosity.”

Colchester Foodbank provided 2,490 three-day emergency food supplies to people in crisis in the year ending in March.

While December is the busiest month of the year, the need for emergency help remains high at the start of the year.

Mark Ward, Interim Chief Executive at The Trussell Trust which owns a network of foodbanks, said: “Last month foodbanks met thousands of people who would otherwise have faced going hungry at Christmas. No one should be unable to afford food, at any time of year.

"As we look ahead to the new year, against a backdrop of record foodbank referrals, we’re committed to working towards a future where there is no need for foodbanks.

"Together with our foodbank network, we’ll ensure emergency food and help are available for anyone referred whilst at the same time challenging why people are being thrown into crisis in the first place.”

To make a donation or find out how to help, visit www.colchester.foodbank.org.uk.