SALISBURY Foodbank is appealing for support as it enters the autumn harvest season – when demand increases amid falling temperatures and rising fuel bills.
Maria Stevenson, manager of the Salisbury charity, has called on the community to back the group’s efforts to support those in need and highlighted the ways people can help, from donations of money or food to raising awareness of the cause.
“This Harvest season, we are reaching out to Salisbury and south-east Wiltshire’s communities to help support our work to break the burden of food insecurity and isolation on those in hardship, so that no one feels alone in their journey,” she said.
“For many of the people who receive our support, walking through the doors of the food bank is one of the few social interactions they will have that week.
“We have become increasingly aware that we are not just providing them with food but also the hope of a welcome and connection.
“We need the help of the community during Harvest to continue to address hunger in Salisbury and south east Wiltshire and provide the warmth of hospitality to those who have nothing or no one else to lean on.”
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Salisbury Harvest Appeal
The charity has now launched a Harvest Appeal, which aims to exceed last year’s food donations, as well as highlighting how financial donations are also vital to “keep our own lights on this winter”.
Over the last year, food banks in the Trussell charity community have seen record levels of need amid escalating fuel bills and the cost-of-living crisis.
Among those to benefit from the help of the foodbank was Beth – not her real name – a disabled person who needed support earlier this year.
She said: “It is stressful and a little shameful that at times I have been unable to buy myself shopping. I receive PIP (Personal Independence Payment) and I’m self-employed, which is sometimes unpredictable and not as successful as it might be, hence needing additional help as the cost of everything has become so expensive that eating and being clean has become a luxury.”
Salisbury Foodbank: How to help
People can help Salisbury Foodbank by donating non-perishable goods, such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and hygiene products.
Financial contributions, which allow the charity to purchase essential items and maintain its operations efficiently, are also welcome.
Emma Revie, chief executive at Trussel, added: “We know that many people turn to food banks as a last resort and feel embarrassed that they need to ask for help but food banks across the country are there to offer a warm welcome, provide essential items and help people access services that can lift them out of poverty.
“By coming together and supporting Salisbury Foodbank this Harvest and through to winter you are not just offering a meal – you are extending a hand of friendship, combating isolation, and helping to provide an environment where everyone is valued.”
For more details, and to make a donation, visit the Food Bank Harvest JustGiving page.
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