As the coronavirus crisis continues to wreak havoc on the UK economy, food banks are more desperate than ever for donations.
Demand for food parcels has increased but donations are rapidly decreasing, with some food banks even concerned that they will run out of supplies altogether.
This leaves the most vulnerable people in our society at risk during an already challenging time.
Here's how you can donate to your local food bank, what items you should contribute, and how you can get involved with volunteering.
How to donate to food banks
Many UK supermarkets will have a collection point for food bank donations. This will be a basket located near the exit - but you can check with staff if you're not sure.
You may also be able to drop off donations at the food bank directly.
You can also donate money to charity The Trussell Trust, which runs the UK network of food banks. They accept one off donations, or regular direct debits.
They will distribute the money to food banks around the country, based on need.
It is also possible to donate money directly to your local food bank. Many have set up Crowdfunder pages in response to the COVID-19 crisis, which has increased demand but reduced supply.
What's the best food to donate?
It's best to donate non-perishable foods, or foods with a long shelf life in tins or packets. The Trussell Trust recommends the following:
- Cereal
- Soup
- Pasta
- Rice
- Tinned tomatoes/ pasta sauce
- Lentils, beans and pulses
- Tinned meat
- Tinned vegetables
- Tea/coffee
- Tinned fruit
- Biscuits
- UHT milk
- Fruit juice
Many food banks also need essential non-food items, such as toiletries and tampons.
You can search to find a food bank near you on the Trussell Trust website, and see exactly which items they need.
How to volunteer at a food bank
You can get in touch with your local food bank to see if they're in need of volunteers.
With many people self-isolating, it's very possible that they will be short on staff.
Volunteering for a food bank could involve sorting and packing donations in a warehouse, collecting food from supermarkets, or delivering food parcels to families in need.
