Glossopdale Foodbank's importance in 2021 revealed

Almost 48,000 meals were distributed to adults and children last year by Glossopdale Foodbank. 

The staggering statistic was revealed at a February meeting of the foodbank's management committee. 

Trustees also expressed concern about the impact that the impending cost of living crisis will have on families and individuals in Glossopdale.

In a lengthy discussion, they talked about how the increases in energy and food bills would impact on people and there was agreement that the number of foodbank users is "bound to increase significantly" in the coming months.

Although more people than ever are currently getting help from the foodbank, concern was voiced as to whether all those in need of help knew how to access it.

Charlotte Mendes-Kelly, Glossopdale Foodbank coordinator, said: "Posters were placed in various shops and businesses and private homes last year, telling people how to get in touch with the foodbank but a lot have been taken down, so maybe the time has come to ask people if they will put new ones up.

"We are really concerned that as fuel and food prices continue rising, more people will need to turn to the foodbank." 

Charlotte Mendes-Kelly 

Godfrey Claff, chair of the foodbank, added: "We intend to make greater use of local media such as the Chronicle and local radio. People need to be aware that Glossopdale Foodbank is a community service which is there to help them in times of need and crisis." 

The annual figures for those accessing help from the foodbank indicated just how relevant the service has become, particularly in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. 

Some 3,445 adults and 1,871 children received meals from the foodbank in 2021, meaning a staggering 47,844 meals were distributed in total. 

Once again, the generosity of local people, businesses and organisations was applauded.

“Without this many families, adults and children would experience real hardship," Charlotte said.

Food parcels can be collected from:

• Glossop Children's Centre, off Victoria St, Glossop, SK13 8HZ. Mondays to Fridays 9am to 5pm (closed weekends and bank holidays)
• Hadfield Children's Centre, off Queen's Street, Hadfield, SK13 2DW. Tuesdays and Thursdays 10am to 11am
• The Community Pantry, Winster Mews, Gamesley, SK13 OLU. Mondays to Fridays 10am to 3pm (closed bank holidays)

Anyone housebound, in financial hardship or in need of a food parcel delivery should email delivery.glossopdalefoodbank@gmail.com or call/text 07789 191560. 

Listen to more from Charlotte speaking with our reporter Gill Garston below...