THE demand for food donations is outstripping supplies, according to a Forest Foodbank project worker.

Low income, delays in benefit payments and changes to people’s circumstances are thought to be the reasons for the surge in demand for the Foodbanks which help people in crisis with three days supply of food.

Sandi McDonagh said: “The reasons haven’t changed, i.e. low income and any changes to people’s circumstances or benefit changes causes delays in payment of at least two to three weeks.

“More people are being affected by these factors; we are helping 20 to 30 households each week across the Forest. We have approx 551lb of food donated and 882lb goes out each week. We not only desperately need more donations but storage space of approximately 50sq m.

“We are making up the shortfall by buying supplies with monetary donations and we have reciprocal arrangements with Gloucester and Cotswold Foodbanks when there are surpluses. Harvest festivals and Christmas collections are a welcome boost to our supplies.”

If you would like further details, call Sandi on 07775265263.

Donations can be dropped at the following places:

Foodbank distribution centres - Coleford Roman Catholic Church, 4 High Nash, Monday 2pm-4pm and Thursday 9am-11am

Lydney Christian Fellowship, Swan Road, Wednesday 2pm-4pm and Sat 10am-12pm

Cinderford Christian Fellowship, Station Road, Tuesday 10am-12pm and Fri 9:30am-11:30am

Coleford Baptist Church every morning except Tuesday 10am-12pm

Coleford Library and Coleford Town Council at their opening times

Supermarkets - Lydney Tesco, Coleford and Cinderford Co-ops

Schools - Lydbrook and St John’s Coleford

Most churches will take donations when they are open.