Footfall at a Largs foodbank has almost tripled in five years, it has been revealed, as the service launches an appeal for more donations.
In 2023, more than 50% extra food parcels were handed out year-on-year, with 1,057 in 2022 increasing to 1,560 in 2023.
It is understood a sharp rise is use has been, in part, as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.
Last November saw a surge in food parcels being given out by the voluntary foodbank group, doubling between 2022 and 2023.
And after bills are paid out following the busy Christmas season, the foodbank is bracing itself for a further increase on that figure. Last February's figures showed a 116% increase year on year.
The pandemic had previously put a train on services. In 2020, during Covid, footfall to the foodbank doubled, from 650 parcels in 2019 to 1,233.
Demands on the service has grown since 2018 when the stats were first compiled when 325 handouts took place, with almost five times that handed out in 2023.
With food costs on the rise, as well as rising energy bills, it has proved to be a testing time.
Volunteer Wendy Low Thomson is hoping sharing the insight will encourage more people to donate much needed supplies.
Wendy said the recent figures make for 'grim reading', adding: "With the foodbank usage going through the roof, we are hoping we can get some more support"
The Largs Foodbank is open every Thursday in the centenary hall in Clark Memorial Church from 11.30am till 4.30pm.
The foodbank has been in operation for nearly ten years, serving Largs, Fairlie, Skelmorlie and Millport communities.
It was set up and is run by volunteers and is completely supported by donations and does not receive any regular funding.
The food supplies are available free for those on benefits, however they do not turn anyone away.
Last year the operation extended its services to include a larder aspect, allowing those not on benefits but on low income to access the stock for a very small donation.
Wendy explained: "Due to an increase in demand and rising prices we are finding ourselves in a position where we are having to ask for more support locally and further afield.
"We are looking for funding streams to support our running costs so we can survive as a community resource.
"We know it’s been a difficult few years for many people nationally but we also know that the generosity of the community of Largs and the North Coast is wonderful - we are very privileged to have several kind members of the community who have a regular standing order to donate straight to the foodbank .
"We would be very grateful if you would consider donating to our foodbank on a regular basis by setting up a monthly donation via standing order for any amount you would be happy parting with for this very local and worthwhile cause.
"If you would like to donate this way, please message us to get our bank details. You can contact us through Messenger on our Facebook page or contact us on 07482508875.
"Thank you for your valuable help in supporting those in our local community who need that extra help to survive in these difficult times."
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