Selston food bank launches appeal for donations as Christmas approaches

Reverend Chris Ibbs, who runs the food bank, says demand has risen in the past year.

He said: "The amount we give out does vary, but on an average week will will give out 12 carrier bags of food.

"Unfortunately, this number is growing.

"Anecdotally, since Universal Credit was rolled out in the area, demand does seem to have risen.

"We have run the food bank from this church for the past seven years, and we have seen a dramatic rise in demand in the last year."

Rev. Ibbs says that people in all kinds of circumstances use the food bank, but more often than not it is families with children who access the service.

He added: "The reason people need to use a food bank are complex.

"Often when people move to a new area their benefits are delayed, leaving them without money for up to 12 weeks until they restart.

"Other reasons include job loss or a bereavement."

Emma Olden, owner of Selston Sarnis in the Old Post Office on Alfreton Road, uses her shop as a drop off point for donations.

Emma said: "People seem to be more generous at this time of year.

"I started collecting donations after a regular customer mentioned donating to the food bank, as he had to use it himself a few years ago because he couldn't fee his family.

"It hits home when you speak to people who have experienced that.

"The Selston community is fantastic, without the shop i'd struggle to collect donations but customers really support the cause."

Emma, who has been collecting donations for the past two years, drops off the donations on Sundays when the Church is open.

She also raises money for the Selston, Jacksdale, and Underwood Christmas decorations fund, by collecting unwanted clothes which are then paid for by weight.

The food bank need donations of any tinned food, especially meat products, as well as non perishable items such as rice and pasta.

It also has a limited amount of space for freezer items.

If you need to use the food bank, you can access it in an emergency.

Rev Ibbs said: "We never say no and give food to anyone that needs it, but we do ask for a referral next time."

The food bank take referrals from social workers, so if you need to access the food bank, please contact social services.

If you wish to donate, you can:

Drop off food directly at the Church on Sundays

Drop food off at Selston Sarnis, 64 Alfreton Rd, Selston, Nottingham NG16 6DQ.

You can also drop unwanted clothes to Emma at Selston Sarnis, which she can use for the Christmas lights fund.

Any donations will be very gratefully received.