LATEST figures reveal that there has been a large increase in the number of people seeking help from Stretford Foodbank

The foodbank handed out more than 2,630 three day emergency food supplies to people in crisis over the past 12 months, compared to 1591 the previous year.

Nearly 600 of the food supplies went to children.

The top three reasons for foodbank referral were: benefit delay (24 per cent), low income (23 per cent) and debt 11 per cent.

Over the past year, 23.2 tonnes of food have been donated to Stretford Foodbank.

Schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling it to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.

As well as providing emergency food, Stretford Foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and sanitary products to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the area.

Paul Guest foodbank manager at Stretford, said: “It is deeply concerning that we are still seeing an increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis in our catchment area over the past year.

"Much more needs to be done so we can see the need for the foodbank 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, this means food is simply unaffordable. It really is only with the community’s support that we’re able to provide vital emergency help when it matters most, and we hope that one day there will be no need for us in Trafford.

"But until that day comes, we will continue to offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis. Thank you so much to everyone who already donates time, food and money to help local people. Without your help we could not continue.”

Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including Stretford Foodbank, are partnering with other agencies to provide additional services such as welfare advice, budgeting help and debt support at the foodbank itself, helping people to break out of crisis. Stretford foodbank offers IT support for those who struggle with online applications and benefit sign posting.