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Wed, 30 Sep 2026

Wed, 30 Sep 2026 Drop in donations puts community pantry at risk

St Paul's Pantry in Norton Lees say things are looking "pretty grim" without support.
The pantry provides meals for families during school holidays, but currently has no stock left to do so for half term. The Trussell Trust reports a 56% rise in food parcels given out in England in 2025 compared to 2019. A community leader said it's "a day-to-day battle" to get enough food due to supermarkets' lack of stock, while another added that for every person seen at the pantry, there are many more in need. The Trussell Trust area manager said this time of year is particularly demanding and families may have to choose between feeding themselves or their children. She also stated a significant drop in donations over recent years due to rising food costs, leading to food banks needing to fundraise more.