Lewisham food banks need more volunteers to keep meeting high demand

Food banks are struggling to meet demand for emergency food due to a lack of volunteers, particularly volunteer drivers and cyclists.

‘We saw over 2,000 people step forward to volunteer as part of Lewisham’s Coordinated Community Response during the first lockdown.’ says Dee Saund, Lewisham Local’s Volunteering Programme Manager.

‘Yet many of these individuals have since returned to work, or are no longer in a position to help.’

‘Sadly the demand on local food banks has remained high despite the lockdown ending, ’ explained Simone Riddle, Community Engagement Lead at Lewisham Local.

The impending cut to Universal Credit scheduled for early October as well as the end of the furlough scheme will leave many families without enough money to pay for food and essentials.

‘Recently food banks have seen a drop in volunteers, particularly volunteer drivers, as well as a drop in surplus food available due to major issues in the supply chain.

We want to get the message out on behalf of these projects that your local community still needs you; if you have a car, bicycle, food to donate or simply a few hours to spare, please get in touch with a project near you.’

How you can help:

Find a list of current volunteering opportunities as well as ways to give on Lewisham Local’s website: lewishamlocal.com