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North Bristol and South Glos Foodbank Feeds 3,000 Children in 2024
7th January 2025
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Over 3,000 children in Bristol and South Gloucestershire received emergency food support from North Bristol and South Glos Foodbank in 2024, as the cost of living crisis continues to force local families into impossible choices between heating and eating. Through our nine distribution centres and Food Plus approach, we provided emergency food parcels to 8,022 people last year – a staggering 2% of our local population. And we now face a critical challenge as we enter the post-Christmas period. Research from Trussell shows that the need for emergency food support remains at record levels, with many working families struggling to make ends meet despite employment.
“These numbers represent real families in our communities,” says Ellen Wood, our foodbank manager. “While we’re thankful we could provide this support, we’re deeply concerned about meeting continued high demand as we enter 2025, particularly during January when donations traditionally decline after Christmas generosity.”
As we approach Blue Monday in mid-January, traditionally considered the most difficult day of the year, research shows that one in five food bank users have zero family or friend support networks to turn to in crisis. This stark reality reflects a national picture where 3.1 million people needed food banks in the last 12 months – with social isolation, not just financial hardship, being a major driver of food bank use.
The Scale of Our Work
Throughout 2024, we distributed between 9-12 tonnes of food monthly, providing 11,431 emergency meals each month across North Bristol and South Gloucestershire. While these numbers show a slight decrease from 2023, the start of 2024 proved even busier than the previous year, with particular pressure during winter months.
Despite generous community support, we’ve had to purchase approximately 20% of our food supplies to meet demand. Each emergency food parcel we provide includes nine balanced meals per person plus essential non-food items. A parcel for a couple costs £45, while a family of five receives £79 worth of support – equivalent to 45 meals plus toiletries.
Our Community Response
Behind these numbers stands a network of 270 dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly across our distribution centres, warehouse, delivery service, and community allotment. Their commitment ensures that anyone referred to us receives not just emergency food support, but also a warm welcome and guidance to additional services.
“The community spirit we witness daily is remarkable,” says Laura. “From volunteers collecting donations in supermarkets to those driving our van to deliver essentials where they’re needed most, and even those growing fresh produce in our allotments – everyone is part of the team, and every contribution makes a difference to someone facing crisis in our community.”
Our reach extends through 35 donation points across the region, making it easier for the community to support their neighbours in crisis. From supermarket collection points to school harvest festivals, local businesses to community groups, this network demonstrates the incredible generosity of people across Bristol and South Gloucestershire.
Take Action This January
Your support this January is crucial as we face our annual post-Christmas donation decline. Regular donations, even small ones, make a huge difference to our ability to plan and provide consistent support.
Our most-needed items currently include:
- Pasta sauces
- Tinned fruit
- Vegetable soup
- Rice packets
- Instant coffee
- Tinned vegetables
- Spray deodorant (male or female)
You can drop off donations at any of our 35 donation points across Bristol and South Gloucestershire. For those preferring to give online, our website offers options for one-off or regular monetary donations that help us purchase essential items when stocks run low.
Every donation, whether food or funds, helps us continue providing emergency support to local families facing crisis. Together, we can ensure that no child in our community goes hungry. Your generosity today helps us be there for those who need us tomorrow.