Thu, 14 Aug 2025

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 Food banks say demand is rising as donations drop

One food bank said demand had quadrupled since 2016 but food and financial donations had decreased

* The Lord's Larder food bank in Chard, Somerset has seen a 28% increase in demand for its services compared to last year.
* Demand for the food bank's services has quadrupled since 2016 but donations have decreased.
* Volunteer-run food banks in Somerset are struggling with rising expenses due to increased need and reduced donations.
* The West Somerset Food Cupboard has seen a 10% drop in donations and a 10% increase in demand, with requests for gluten-free, dairy-free and meat-free produce on the rise.
* Both food banks have expanded their services to include nappies, sanitary products, basic toiletries and pet food.
* The Lord's Larder provides weekly food parcels to 40 families, while the West Somerset Food Cupboard works with 30 agencies to deliver food across West Somerset.
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