CHRISTMAS can be a “difficult and anxious” time for those unable to live up to festive family expectations, as the Haslemere food bank team know only too well.

Volunteers pulled out all the stops for the food bank’s special Christmas distribution on the morning of December 20 and prepared an amazing display for their guests to choose from – all donated – of toys and presents, toiletries and cosmetics, books and games, and a selection of children’s clothes.

There were also food packs, which included Christmas goodies, such as mince pies, cake, puddings and all the ingredients for a festive family meal.

Food bank management group chairman David Rice said: “Those referred to us at this difficult and anxious time were able to choose some items to bring them cheer.

“In just two hours, we were able to support and encourage 91 families. A big thank you to our volunteers, to the generous people of the area who donated all the food and gifts, and to those who shared the day with us.

“We have been busier than ever this past six months. We regularly prepare four food packs for each session. Whereas once it was an occasional session when extra packs had to be produced, now it is a regular task for our volunteers to prepare extra packs during our opening times.

“While our numbers are very modest compared with those food banks in major centres of population, we know we are seeing some very desperate people referred to us for food support.

“Many of the issues people face are triggered by problems with Universal Credit and the statutory five-week gap in financial support following changes in people’s benefits. More people are coming and for longer.”

The hope is those referred to the food bank can join another inspirational community project – Haslemere Kitchen – which held a free Christmas lunch at Haslemere Methodist Church on December 20.

Lead organiser Jude Kracmar said: “We had our first community ‘Big Lunch’ in June and have been running them twice a month ever since.

“Our vision was not to provide for a specific group, but to offer an opportunity for all and any to come together and bond over food. We wanted a real cross-section to come and fill the church hall with conversation, co-operation and laughters.

“Our principal source of food is Fareshare. In addition we collect food surplus from town supermarkets and other businesses. All of them have been fantastically helpful and generous.

“Our volunteers are the real heroes of the project.”