THE demand for emergency food supplies for families in crisis across Halton is growing.

Foodbanks are expecting to face their busiest Christmas ever.

Latest figures reveal a 47 rise in the number of parcels supplied by Trussell Trust foodbanks last December compared to the monthly average for this year.

Foodbanks are doing even more to help people in crisis but the charity is calling on people to support their foodbanks in Runcorn and Widnes this month and over the new year.

Mark Ward, interim chief executive of The Trussell Trust, said: “For many, this Christmas will not be a time for celebration. Every year we see a spike in demand at Christmas but this year foodbanks are expecting their busiest Christmas ever.

"At Christmas foodbanks will be working hard to provide not only those regular essentials, like pasta and cereal, but also little extras that offer hope at a time when people need it most.

"The stories are as inspiring as they are heart-breaking – one mum told us that she was relieved as her daughter’s first Christmas was taken care of with help from the foodbank.

“Last December, the public’s generosity meant foodbanks could help thousands of people across the country. But when the festive season is over there will still be people in our communities unable to afford food. "Foodbanks rely on donations, which is why we’re asking the public to show that same generosity again, not only this December but in the months that follow Christmas too.”

Emergency food supplies provided for families and individuals across Halton have soared during the past six months.

To find out how to donate and what food is most urgently needed visit runcorndistrict.foodbank.org.uk and widnes.foodbank.org.uk.

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