For most people, Christmas is a period of joy, festivities and probably spending more money than is really necessary. Unfortunately for some people this is simply not the case. With monthly outgoings increasing and no additional ‘incomings’, some families face an ever stretched purse where the choice becomes paying rent or buying food.
This year, emergency food and support reached a record high of over one-million uses, which is around three times the amount as in 2012-13. Over Christmastime, this support will be critical in helping families reduce a burden.
Foodbanks are charitable organisations, funded and run by donations and volunteers. They provide emergency food and support for people in crisis, all over the UK. This food is kindly donated by people buying an extra bag of shopping at the supermarket, or by sparing what they can at a donation point. Any food that is non-perishable and in-date is then sorted and packed into bags and boxes. By sorting these foods, the foodbank is able to ensure that dietary requirements are catered for.
Foodbanks are for any one in need. In order to receive the food from a foodbank, care professionals will identify people in true crisis and issue them with a voucher. These professionals are best placed to assess the need of vulnerable people, and ensure that it is only those who genuinely require help who are able to receive it.
It’s not just food that is available at a foodbank. Charities recognise the importance of helping people in the longer term. Volunteers will meet with people over a hot drink or meal and offer a shoulder, some friendly advice, and point people to other agencies that can help solve the issues for the future.
This support in some cases can be life changing or life saving. When people are truly struggling, it is often the kindness of strangers that really makes a difference.
It is for all of these reasons that Computer Talk have decided to support a local foodbank for at least our 2015 Christmas charity donation. We want to make a positive impact in at least one person’s life – to help them make the best of Christmastime, and we believe that this is the best way to achieve that.
You can find more information about the Trussell Trust Foodbank here, including how you can help. If this is something that you are interested in, please check with your local supermarket as they may have organised a donation point.
Computer Talk close for the Christmas period from Wednesday 23rd December 2015 until Sunday 3rd January 2016.