Food banks and community larders are warning of an uncertain future as donations reach record lows, exacerbating challenges for individuals and families already struggling with the cost of living. One father, who relies on a community larder to supplement his family's food supply, described facing a difficult summer due to dwindling donations and the end of holiday voucher schemes.
Matthew, a father of two who uses the Millbrook Hub community larder in Castle Cary up to three times a week, stated that without this resource, he is unsure how he would manage. "The cost of living definitely has had an impact. Half the time, I can't afford food for myself," he said. He noted that the summer months present additional financial strain, particularly as Somerset Council has ended a scheme that provided supermarket vouchers to families of children eligible for free school meals during holidays.
"I'm going to have to stretch my budget even more this month, with great difficulty," Matthew added. Currently unable to work due to caring for young children, he anticipates potentially needing to ask friends for financial assistance for his children's food over the next six weeks. The limited food options at the larder mean Matthew primarily uses it for essentials like nappies, toilet roll, and shampoo, as well as some food for himself, while allocating all available funds towards his children's meals.
Charity leaders have confirmed that donations have hit lows, contributing to the precarious situation faced by food banks and community larders. Council officials stated that food vouchers are still accessible through the Crisis and Resilience Fund, which replaced the previous Household Support Fund in April. Despite this, the observed decline in donations at local larders indicates a widespread struggle among those relying on these services amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis.