More than 1,000 people in Cannock use food bank
More than 1,000 people have used a food bank in Cannock during the past seven months, organisers said.
And they predict that the numbers will rise even higher as unemployment figures increase.
Run by a collection of churches across Cannock Chase, 13 tons of food has been passed on to those in need, with organisers expecting hundreds of more visits.
Volunteer Sharon Jagger said the numbers have spiked in recent months, with changes to the benefit system likely to be the main cause.
She said: "From personal experience, since the government changes, we are finding more and more people being referred to us because of a delay with benefit payment or down to recent changes. With more changes due, we can only see the number of people coming to us increasing."
The food bank in Cannock was set up in November to help those who are struggling financially to buy food. Food is donated by individuals, schools, churches and business. Vouchers are given out to those in need by a range of professionals such as doctors, health visitors, social workers, Citizens Advice Bureau staff, welfare officers, probation workers and teachers.
The food is then claimed from one of several distribution centres. Each voucher lists the reasons why it has been issued.
This has indicated that the spike in numbers can be attributed to changes to the benefits system made by the government.
Mrs Jagger added: "What we are finding is that it is people from all walks of life that are coming to us. It is not just those who are down and out, it is ordinary families. People can't quite believe it that people who drive a Mercedes are even referred to us."
The food bank is based at the Pye Green Christian Centre in Hednesford, and food is given out six days a week across Cannock and the surrounding area. It is staffed by a team of more than 50 volunteers.
For information about the project or to get involved go to http://cannockdistrict.foodbank.org.uk or call 01543 422394.
