ALTON Foodbank handed over a three-day emergency food supply to more than 650 people in crisis during the 2016/17 financial year, of which 290 went to children.

A drop of just over a quarter on last year’s figure of 880 (400 of them children) the figures nevertheless reflect a problem within the Alton area of people struggling with Universal Credit roll out, low wages and insecure work.

And, according to Alton Foodbank manager John Jacobs, they are also evidence of the impact of the closure or disengagement of agencies who previously referred people to the foodbank for help.

But Alton is once again bucking the trend. Latest statistics published by The Trussell Trust – the umbrella organisation for the 424-strong network of foodbanks across the UK – show that need for the service is not diminishing.

The top three reasons for foodbank referral nationally were low income (33%), benefit change (15%), and debt (13%).

Over the last year people have donated almost seven tonnes of food to Alton Foodbank, and the service has benefited from the support of more than 45 volunteer helpers.

Mr Jacob said: “Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling us to give three days of nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.”

As well as providing emergency food, Alton Foodbank provides school uniforms and essentials like washing powder, nappies and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services such as Christians Against Poverty, Citizens Advice, and One Way.

Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including Alton, are providing additional services such as cooking and nutrition advice and budgeting help through the Eat Well Spend Less courses, helping people to break out of the cycle of poverty.

Mr Jacobs said: “We welcome a drop in need for the foodbank at the moment and really hope this trend continues. But 656 three-day food supplies provided to people in crisis is still 656 too many, and more needs to be done so we can continue to see the need for the service decline.

“Anybody could find themselves in need of the foodbank. Every week people are referred to us after being hit by something unavoidable, such as illness, a delay in a benefit payment or an unexpected bill, and that means food is simply unaffordable. It really is only with the community’s support that we are able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in Alton and district. But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.”

He added: “Thank you so much to everyone in the local area who already donates time, food and money to help local people. If you’re not already involved, we’d love to hear from you.”

Despite generous donations of food, there are many hidden costs involved in the running of the Alton Foodbank.

Costs include renting of premises, staff costs and other overheads like utilities and insurances. Alton Foodbank would welcome any new offers of help with funding – local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank’s work can find out more at alton.foodbank.org.uk.

Alternatively, call John Jacobs on 07773 034447 or e-mail [email protected].