Foodbank providing an “invaluable lifeline” during cost-of-living crisis

Wrexham Foodbank has been praised by the city’s MS as it continues to provide crucial support to those struggling to make ends meet.

Local Member of the Senedd, Lesley Griffiths recently visited the hard-working staff, trustees and volunteers at Wrexham Foodbank who are settling into life at their new warehouse in Rhosddu after a hectic few months.

Last November, the Foodbank was forced to leave its old premises at Felin Puleston and moved to its new location on the Rhosddu Industrial Estate.  The move coincided with one the busiest times of the year when staff and volunteers are organising appeals and collections ahead of the festive period.

Since 1st April 2023, Wrexham Foodbank has given 9039 parcels out which is an increase of around 33 % from the previous 2022/23 statistics.  Almost 6,000 adults and over 3,100 children have been fed in that time.  The Foodbank’s annual statistics are taken from 31st March until 1st April each year.

Despite the high profile appeals in the run up to Christmas, the cost-of-living crisis is impacting Wrexham Foodbank as donations in recent months have dipped and stocks are lower than in previous years.  Wrexham Foodbank is currently spending around £2,000 per month on purchasing food for the parcels.

Staff and volunteers are keen to stress donations are always welcome.  Current items in short supply include tinned fruit, tinned tomatoes, tinned meat, tinned vegetables, tinned fish, tinned rice pudding, tea/coffee, long life fruit juice and UHT milk (1 litre).  Toiletries, nappies (larger sizes) and baby toiletries are also needed.

After donating supplies, touring the new premises and meeting with Foodbank Manager, Amy Jones, Wrexham MS Lesley Griffiths said: “While it is extremely disappointing there is a need for foodbanks to exist at all, there is no doubt they provide an invaluable lifeline to people, particularly during this cost-of-living crisis.

“Wrexham Foodbank relies on the local community to function. The charity supports people all year round and any donation, whether that’s dropping off items or offering a financial contribution to help towards rent or general upkeep, is always greatly appreciated.”