Liverpool charity supports more than 3,000 people in three months as city food poverty rises

A Liverpool charity has supported more than 3,000 people in three months in foodbanks across the city as poverty rises even higher.

St Andrew’s Community Network, which has 18 food hubs across the north of Liverpool, gave help to 3,297 people in July, August and September this year – more than the same period in 2023.

Charlotte Moorcroft, development lead for the charity which also offers debt and benefits advice to those suffering hardship, says: “I think what we are seeing generally is a steady rise in foodbank usage with a bigger increase in need during the colder months when energy bills increase, and Christmas presents further financial challenges to those already struggling.

“Because of that, and changes to the Winter Fuel Payments which means fewer people will be eligible for support, we expect that need for foodbanks will increase again this winter.”

And she warns:

“We are already seeing this rise in need with over 150 more people accessing our foodbank centres in September than in August.”

One of the people the Clubmoor-based charity helped recently was a nurse, who was a single parent.

“They had recently moved to a new area with nothing. Their friends had bought them some household essentials, like a microwave and toaster but, as they told us, because they were working, they couldn’t get any help towards setting up the new home. 

“When we spoke to them about their situation and the challenges they were facing, they told us that there was a plumbing issue in the new property that would take days to sort out, so they were washing their nursing uniform at their parent’s house.”

“The nurse told us that when they first came to the foodbank, they were embarrassed but were grateful to have someone to talk to.

“The food and toiletries provided in the parcel from the foodbank was a lifeline for the family, helping them through an extremely distressing situation.”

St Andrew’s Community Network provides essential support to around 36,000 people across its services every year.

It works tirelessly to try to break the cycle of poverty, and relies heavily on donations to support its vital work in the community.

Fundraising like that at Macello Meathouse in West Derby later this month provides a massive boost.

The Turkish-style steakhouse is hosting a charity fundraising event on Monday, October 21, to support St Andrew’s Community Network.

The evening will be a blend of food and entertainment, featuring a specially-crafted buffet and a spectacular tomahawk steak show. 

All proceeds from the event will directly benefit St Andrew’s Community Network, helping them continue their mission to set communities free from poverty.

Charlotte says:

“Fundraising events like that at Macello’s are essential to helping us continue to meet this increased need we are seeing across our services.

“Without the support of companies, households and passionate individuals who so generously give what they can, both through financial donations, giving food and through volunteering, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do and support the amount of people that we do.

“Macello’s support means so much, and we know a lot of work has gone in to making the evening incredible. We’re really looking forward to it, and are so grateful to everyone who’s getting behind the event and booking tickets!” 

Bayram and Gizem, owners of Macello Meathouse, say:

“Events like this provide a valuable opportunity to raise awareness and gather donations to support those in need. Our goal in organising this fundraiser is to generate the funds necessary to keep these vital services running. 

“At Macello Meathouse, we’re committed to supporting the local community in every way we can, and we’re honoured to contribute to such a meaningful cause that positively impacts people’s lives.”

The fundraiser will take place at Macello Meathouse in Liverpool on Monday, October 21, starting at 7pm. Tickets are £30 per person, and can be bought via Eventbrite.

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