Several months ago, I watched the film, I, Daniel Blake and was horrified when one of the characters, a single mother, was skipping meals to ensure her children were fed. The family were referred to a foodbank where they received emergency food but the mother was unable to access feminine hygiene products. This story really hit me because in a developed country like Great Britain, it is shocking that some women have to choose between eating and managing their period. Nobody should ever have to make that choice.
This story reawakened my interest in foodbanks. I have been aware of their existence for several years, largely due to the excellent micro-play Britain Isn't Eating which I urge you to watch.
Poverty doesn't just exist in distant lands shown on the news, it exists in my home country. In fact, thirteen million Britons live below the poverty line according to The Trussell Trust, the UK's network of foodbanks. People can find themselves in need of a foodbank for a whole host of reasons including, changes/delays in benefits, illness, unemployment, low income and domestic violence.
Foodbanks can become a lifeline for those in difficult situations. Those in need are referred by health professionals, social workers or the police to receive vouchers for food parcels from their local foodbank. The foodbanks receive and sort food donations to make boxes of at least three days' emergency food. These food parcels typically contain non-perishable goods such as pasta, soup, rice, cereals, tea, tinned food as well as hygiene products and toiletries. Not only do foodbanks provide food but also support such as budgeting advice, a financial triage, cooking courses and holiday clubs for low income families.
I cannot even fathom what it must feel like not knowing about how you are going to get your next meal. I am so fortunate that I have never experienced this worry and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. The great thing about foodbanks is that it is a community effort, it is run by volunteers and is really easy to get involved. If you are financially able, the simplest way to help is by donating non-perishable goods or toiletries to your local collection point. These drop off points are usually located in churches, community centres and after the checkout at supermarkets. Personally, I donate via my local supermarket as I can just add a couple more items to my shopping basket. The donation points often list which items are sorely needed so you can have an idea on what you could donate.
The stories in I, Daniel Blake and Britain Isn't Eating are fictional but for many people in Britain, that is their harsh reality. If you would like to get involved and find your local donation point, The Trussell Trust provides an informative guide. If you think you are in need of a foodbank, you can find more information here.
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