Liverpool Walton food bank sees demand soar

The Salvation Army’s Liverpool Walton food bank sees demand soar amid coronavirus pandemic.

A Salvation Army food bank in Merseyside has seen referrals soar as members of the local community struggle to feed themselves and their families during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Salvation Army in Walton, Liverpool, has seen an increase in its food bank service from just one morning a week to now being open five days a week as it struggles to cope with growing demand.

Now operating Monday – Friday from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm at its church and community centre located on Cavendish Drive, the International church and charitable organisation was helping approximately ten people a week with food parcels before the national crisis however last week saw over 108 people supported, more than ten times the amount seen before the coronavirus pandemic hit the UK and nationwide lockdowns were put in place.

The food parcels were provided for vulnerable members of the community which saw requests from families and also individuals as more and more people find themselves pushed into poverty.

Major Lin Herbert, joint leader of The Salvation Army Liverpool Walton said: “The number of people we are now helping with food donations has increased considerably in recent weeks and as the coronavirus pandemic continues we expect the numbers to continue to rise.

“For many it is a position they have not found themselves in before and that can be a terrifying situation to be in and so now is the time that they need us more than ever and we are working hard to ensure that food and supplies are available at this time of national crisis. We want to thank everyone that has supported us in our quest to serve the local community.”

The Salvation Army’s church and community centre in Liverpool Walton is a drop off point for food donations however only essential travel is encouraged, in line with Government guidelines and social distancing measures are fully practiced throughout.