North Ayrshire Foodbank appeals for donations as demand surges, aiding nearly 5,000 locals in the past year.
From December 2023 to November 2024, they aided almost 5,000 locals, operating mainly from their Glasgow Street hub. They also work in thirteen other locations, including Saltcoats and Irvine.
Last year, the food bank marked its twelfth anniversary, recognizing the strain the cost-of-living crisis places on many families’ budgets. Coordinator Craig Crosthwaite expressed gratitude to current donors and appealed for continued help. Donations totaled over 41 tonnes last year, serving as a testament to what the community can do.
Craig hopes for extra support, emphasizing that even one tin can make a real difference in keeping the shelves stocked. He stated that donor support makes everything possible, noting their efforts to decrease the food bank’s demand. The cost-of-living crisis has stopped this decrease. The need stayed high.
The increased need was spread across a new larder network and the food bank hasn’t refused anyone with a voucher. Donors always make sure they have enough food. They thank everyone who contributes to their community. Craig has worked with the food bank since 2012, and he says demand has steadily increased over the decade. He knows donors also feel the impact of rising costs; every donation matters.
It’s hard to keep helping others right now when donors also feel the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. They appreciate all support. Even one tin can make a big difference, providing help to people during hard times.
A tin of carrots is cheap, only 36p. Peas cost 28p, and corn is 65p. A single tin from each person helps a lot. The food bank can easily stay well-stocked.
The food bank has been helping people for thirteen years. The need for food keeps rising each year, so donations help reduce the pressure and help put food on someone’s table.