Foodstock, a foodbank located on Andersontown Road in Belfast, has reported a staggering 300% increase in referrals during the Halloween mid-term break. This surge highlights the escalating financial pressures faced by many families in the area.
Led by SDLP Councillor Paul Doherty, Foodstock plans to provide 600 meals on Christmas Day to support those in need. Doherty expressed concern over the unprecedented demand, stating, “We’ve had an incredible response every year when it comes to Christmas, but this year I feel as if we’re headed into something that we’ve never encountered.”
The charity has launched an annual appeal to ensure no family goes without this Christmas, accepting donations of new toys, selection boxes, food, vouchers, and funds. A GoFundMe page has also been set up to help deliver food supplies, home heating, new toys for children, and Christmas dinners to the elderly and most vulnerable this holiday season.
This significant increase in demand underscores the severe financial challenges faced by many families in Belfast, highlighting the critical need for community support and charitable efforts to ensure that no one goes hungry, especially during the holiday season.
Sources:
https://www.irishnews.com/news/foodbank-demand-belfast-300-percent-2024-12-02/
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-59773525
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