Local people have donated 61 tonnes of food to the Norwood and Brixton foodbank in 2017 and more than 200 have volunteered, the foodbank said in a Christmas message to supporters.
“December is always a hugely busy time of year at the Norwood and Brixton foodbank,” it said. “The introduction of universal credit, the government’s controversial new benefit scheme, is likely to add further pressure on foodbank clients.
“When Brixton foodbank opened its doors in September 2011, we had no idea of the scale of the need that was on our doorstep, and certainly no idea of how much we would need to expand the service we were about to offer over the coming years.
“Without the great support of the community, our foodbank would struggle to operate and with winter setting in, your support is needed more than ever.”
The foodbank said its final session of the year is the busiest and is also when Christmas hampers containing fresh fruit and veg, and seasonal treats as well as regular items, are distributed. It asked anybody wanting to donate items towards Christmas hampers to do so before Saturday 16 December.
You can visit the foodbank website for details of where donations can be delivered and cash donations are always welcome. You can give online through the link on the foodbanks website or by cheque payable to the Norwood and Brixton Foodbank Ltd. The foodbank website is warning of a stock shortage crisis and seeking tinned meat, tinned tomatoes, Christmas-themed goodies and toiletries.
Congratulations on your appeal it looks like you are doing a great job!