Food banks call for more financial support

Guernsey Welfare Service said its shelves were running low on essentials

Food banks across the Channel Islands are seeking extra financial support amid increasing demand.

Guernsey Welfare Service said its shelves were running low on essentials such as tinned goods as islanders grapple with rising food prices and household bills.

Sue Le Friec, the charity's welfare co-ordinator, said the extra demand meant its annual grant from the Committee for Employment and Social Security was no longer "covering the costs it used to".

Caritas Jersey chief executive Patrick Lynch said demand had "gone up exponentially" at its St Vincent de Paul food bank.

Caritas Jersey chief executive Patrick Lynch said demand had "gone up exponentially"

Guernsey Welfare Service said there were an average of 48 islanders a week seeking help to keep their families fed in 2022.

The number now stands at more than 60, it said.

Ms Le Friec said: "It doesn't take long for food to go once it comes in.

"We do restrict our visits to once a month, but people now are taking up that offer and coming every month for assistance.

"We know it's not unique to us but if anybody can help to fill up our shelves we would really appreciate it."

Mr Lynch said "demand and need has gone up exponentially" at Caritas Jersey's St Vincent de Paul Food Bank.

He said there was a need for extra financial support in order to fund supplies.

"We've had to get a lot more donations in... [but] it's one bag in and 46 out," he said.