Food banks

The importance of food banks in feeding the poorest people in this country is becoming more and more apparent. In Prime Minister's Questions on 16 October, I asked the Prime Minister:

"The number of people helped by food banks in 2012-13 was triple what it was the previous year. Is the Prime Minister proud of that achievement?"

This is a real issue that is continuing to grow in Hackney and across the country. The cost of living crisis is helping to drive more and more people into desperate situations, resulting in even higher numbers turning to food banks.

The Trussell Trust runs the food bank in Hackney. Tescos are holding collection days for the Hackney food banks from 29 November to 1 December. If you are shopping that day please buy an extra item or two for those who desperately need the help.In the past year 346,992 people have received a minimum of three days emergency food from a Trussell Trust food bank nationally. Over a third of these are children.

During the festive season, families are hard pressed and food banks will undoubtedly be the source of relief for many. I would encourage anyone who can afford to, to donate to the Hackney Foodbank. To do so follow the link here

This month I will be visiting Hackney Foodbank with the Financial Ombudsman Service and will also be visiting the Tesco store on Morning Lane to experience the National Food Collection that is taking place at the end of this month.