North Belfast Foodbank – End of Year Stats 2023
Today the Trussell Trust has released its year end stats showing an increase of 37%, and within Northern Ireland a 29% increase, in food parcels distributed.
We would like to take a moment to reflect on the work of the North Belfast Food Bank over the past 12 months. Despite the challenges that we have faced due to the ongoing cost of living crisis, we are proud to say that we have been able to continue providing essential support to those in need in our community. With the help of our dedicated volunteers, donors, and referral partners, we have been able to distribute food to families and individuals who are struggling to make ends meet.
Food distributed – Up 70%
We are incredibly proud of the impact we have had on our community. Over the past year we have seen a 70% increase in homes requiring food support and fed 2,549 people (1,410 adults and 1,139 children). We have provided over 55,000 meals (23,000kg) to individuals and families in need, ensuring that they have access to the basic necessity of food during times of crisis.
Our team of dedicated volunteers have worked tirelessly to sort, pack, and distribute these parcels, and we are grateful for their commitment to our work.
Of course, the fact that we have had to provide so many food parcels is a sobering reminder of the ongoing need for our services. The past year has been particularly challenging, with many families facing financial hardship due to the cost of living crisis, cuts to Universal Credit, lack of financial resilience, and legacy of Covid. Many families are struggling to make ends meet, and food insecurity has become a pressing concern for a growing number of people.
In addition to providing food, we have also offered support and signposting to other services, such as debt counselling and mental health support, to help address the root causes of food poverty.
Donations – Up 20%, Stock – Down by 1/3
Our foodbank is fully volunteer lead and run. We rely entirely on the generosity of individuals and organisations, and every donation goes a long way in supporting our work. This year we received over 20,000kg of food, up 20% on the previous year. However, our stock levels are down by a third on the previous year at a time when the need has never been greater.
Looking Ahead
We know that there will continue to be challenges in the fight against hunger. But we are more determined than ever to continue our work and make a difference in the lives of those we serve. We are grateful for the continued support of our community and look forward to another year of serving those in need.
We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to our food bank in any way whether it was through food donations, funds, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about our work. We couldn’t do it without you.
