Epping Forest Foodbank experiencing high usage rates

According to data from the charity, 654 people depended on food from the food bank in February 2021 compared to 137 the same time last year.

In December 2020-February 2021 referrals to the food bank increased by 284 per cent from the same period last year, equating to an increase of more than 1,000 people.

Epping Forest Foodbank Interim Manager Hannah Henley said: “We have had an enormous demand since Christmas.

“The last three months have been like three Christmases in a row!”

The increased demand for the food banks services led the Facebook page “UK Homeless & Community Support Hub” to launch an appeal on the food bank’s behalf.

Data provided by Epping Forest Foodbank.

In a post published on Monday, the group said “Epping Forest Foodbank needs your help.

“Over the last few weeks demand has gone up but sadly donations have gone down massively.

“We are a drop off point for these amazing guys, so if you can add a few extra bits to your shopping this week, it would go a long way to help those that can’t afford the most basic of food items right now.”

The post also listed items for that the charity was in need of, including long life milk, juice, tea, toiletries, cleaning supplies and sanitary products

A picture of the food banks temporary packing centre at Hope Hall at St Marys In Loughton, introduced to ensure social distancing could be maintained.

While the increase in demand has had some impact on supplies, Ms Henley was keen to emphasise that it is by no means a critical situation for the charity.

She said: “It’s not like it is ‘Old Mother Hubbard’ here – you know, ‘Old Mother Hubbard, there’s nothing in the cupboard’.”

“I think for some of our volunteers, the shelves are looking a little bit leaner, but, you know, it is under control.”

She stressed that people should not be put off going to the food banks as there is enough food to continue feeding those that need it.

Ms Henley added, however, that certain items were more at risk of running out, including some of those listed by the UK Homelessness and Community Support Hub, considering the supply needed for the next few months.

The food bank has been a lifeline for many in the community who have struggled due to the pandemic.

In an email to the charity, one service-user said: “My children and I received our food parcel yesterday and were stunned at the amount of food we were given.

“This has been a really difficult few months, income has been halved due to husband’s job loss and I have been left to hold everything together.

“I just want you all to know what a difference you made to us – thank you to everyone involved in the scheme”.

Ms Henley expressed her gratitude to the community for making the charity’s work possible.

She said: “The community has been so generous.

“I have worked at many food banks, but Epping Forest Foodbank is truly special”.

She did add, however, that the community’s help was still needed to ensure they could continue their work.

She highlighted the charity’s shopping list as an important tool to help people know what to donate.

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