We have been busy collecting food to help those in need during the festive season.

The Trussell Trust has revealed that December 2018 was the busiest month for food banks across the UK last year. During the month, 186,185 three-day emergency parcels were provided and 78,536 of these were for children. This is an upsetting 44% increase than the monthly average for the 2018-2019 financial year.

Our staff and foster carers filled boxes with tins and packets to give to The Basement Project, collecting around 70 items.

The food donated to the food bank is given in emergency food parcels to people referred because they cannot afford to feed themselves and their families.

Donations included a variety of long-life food items, drinks, Christmas treats and toiletries were delivered to the food banks this week, to enable local people to have a happier Christmas.

Hannah Cooper, Manager at Clifford House, commented: “As everyone gets into the festive spirit and focuses on buying things for their friends and family, we wanted to also give to those in the local community and make a real difference to the lives of those in need, especially the young people.”

“More people are in need of support now more than ever, so we want to ensure that, while we all indulge, others don’t go hungry over the festive period.”