YMCA Burton has operated a Foodbank for 23 years and this year has seen it break all previous records. Due to the on-going Cost of Living crisis, the Foodbanks usage has increased dramatically, this year alone they have already given out over 3,000 parcels. They have launched a Christmas appeal to help keep it stocked up over, what they predict to be another harsh winter.
Each foodbank parcel contains enough food to feed someone three meals a day for three days and will typically contain items such as soups, noodles, pasta, pies and tinned vegetables, as well as tea and coffee. Each parcel costs approximately £30 and so the Charity is hoping to raise £10,000 which should ensure enough parcels are available for January and February.
YMCA Burton are once again using the online giving platform “Visufund” which lets supporters “light up a virtual Christmas tree” with each donation. They have also been supported by various community groups, businesses and individuals who are holding Christmas themed quizzes, raffles, Carol services and Christmas jumper days.
Fundraising and Partnerships manager Paula said; “This year we have seen the Foodbank use rise exponentially and we can’t see it slowing down soon unfortunately. We have already been blown away by the pledges of support and we welcome every single donation as we know times are particularly hard this year. Thank you to everyone, from individual givers to the businesses who have supported us so far, all of it is appreciated. Please see the details of our giving page at the end of this article to see how you can help us if you are able to.”
The YMCA Foodbank is open seven days a week from 9am – 7pm and located just opposite the Asda roundabout in the town centre and will also be open throughout the Christmas period.
If you would like to donate to their Christmas appeal, please follow this link: https://bitly.ws/34uIL