OUR STATISTICS:
- 1249 three day emergency food supplies given to local people in crisis from Dagenham Foodbank in 2015-16
- Latest statistics published by Trussell Trust foodbank network show UK-wide foodbank figures for 2015-16 remain at record levels; national need is still not decreasing
- Early findings in new data analysis of Trussell Trust figures by University of Hull suggests foodbank use highest in areas where many people are unable to work due to illness or disability, are skilled manual workers, or are deprived
Over 1249 three day emergency food supplies were provided to local people by Dagenham foodbank in the 2015/16 financial year, compared to 909 in 2014/15. Of this number, 631 went to children.
At the Dagenham Foodbank, the top three reasons for foodbank referral were: (low income 29%, benefit delay 21%; benefit change 16%;].
Over the last year, local people have donated 10 tonnes of food to Dagenham Foodbank, and over 30 people volunteered. Local schools, businesses and faith groups have provided vital support to the foodbank, enabling us to give three days’ nutritionally balanced food and support to people in crisis.
As well as providing emergency food, Dagenham foodbank provides essentials like washing powder, nappies and hygiene products, children wears to families who are struggling, as well as signposting them to other services in the local area. Many Trussell Trust foodbanks, including Dagenham foodbank, are partnering with other agencies to provide additional services such as Job Club at the foodbank itself, helping people to break out of crisis.
[Foodbank Coordinator Olamoji Orimogunje], says:
“We are still seeing an increase in the number of three day emergency food supplies provided to local people in crisis in the last year. It is all too easy when you look at figures to forget the real people behind the statistics. Recently, a new mum of twins visited the foodbank , She had skipped food for two days so as to afford nappies and milk for her children on her low income. That’s why the foodbank is so vital. We are very grateful for the ongoing support of the community, and hope that one day there will be no need for us in Dagenham. But until that day comes, we will continue to demonstrate God’s love and offer the best possible service to help local people facing a crisis.”
FOODBANK FUNDING:
The running costs for the foodbank is increasing, all of which is raised locally to enable us to continue this work. Costs include warehouse space, to sort and stock donated food, a van to pick up donated food and deliver to distribution centres, and other overheads like utilities and insurances. The foodbank welcomes any new offers of help with funding – local businesses, organisations and individuals interested in supporting the foodbank’s work can find out more at www.dagenham.foodbank.org.uk