DEMAND for help at Knutsford Foodbank has doubled since the start of this year.
The charity fears soaring fuel prices and energy bills will put even more struggling families and individuals in need of support.
Hope Central, which runs Knutsford Foodbank, is expecting a big rise in the need for emergency parcels in the coming weeks.
Trustee Ian Robertson said: “People are really concerned, they are going without.
“They are having to choose to eat or heat, it’s horrendous.
“People are not putting lights on at night to save money and spend the day with relatives so they can don’t have to heat their own homes.
“We are seeing more families. Everyone is deeply grateful for the help they receive.”
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The reassuring message is that plenty of food is available for everyone.
A team of 40 dedicated volunteers is based at a community hub, working in partnership with The Welcome on Longridge.
“It was hugely busy during the pandemic and demand has now doubled,” said Ian, who is now appealing for more food donations.
“The giving of food has slowed down a bit but we are confident people’s compassion will cut in.
“We appreciate a bit of everything, particularly tinned meat, tinned veg and semi-skimmed UHT milk.
“Financial aid is also great as we can go to discount stores and buy what we need.
“We work with all the local supermarkets, Co-op, Waitrose, Sainsbury’s, Booths, and Aldi.
"They offer us fresh food reaching the end of its shelf life."
Most of the people seeking help have jobs, he said, but simply don’t earn enough to meet the current inflation spiral.
“It is pretty scary, costs are getting bigger,” said Ian.
“It is cruel that people can work and still not have enough money to look after their families.”
A drop in wages, bereavement or ill health can suddenly leave families in dire straits.
Ian said: “We are here for everyone. People have no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed, our service is totally confidential.
“We can deliver if people prefer, rather than collect food themselves.
“No judgement is made, we are always here to help.”
Collection boxes for food donations are in all the local supermarkets.
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