The manager of Renfrewshire Foodbank has said she thinks people will freeze this winter as the cost of living crisis bites.
Crystal Clayton said they’re already seeing an upturn in the number of people who are struggling with their bills and are turning to the foodbank for support.
And she said they’re planning for a busy winter with people having to spend more on heating their homes and less on food.
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She said: “There are a lot more people who are struggling to pay for their energy as well as for everything else.
“We’re not even in winter yet. I really think that people will be genuinely freezing and sitting in darkness in their homes.
“It’s not a choice between heating and eating, it goes further than that. People will be actually freezing.”
Crystal said they’re hoping the big harvest donation drive which is coming up will be well supported by Renfrewshire schools. She also said the lead up to Christmas is a busy time for donations.
“People are always very thoughtful in the run up to Christmas,” she said. “Schools are very generous at harvest as well.
“The poverty gap is going to increase further. It’s difficult to budget when you don’t have a budget in the first place.
“Coming on the back of covid, this energy crisis will drive a lot of people into poverty.”
Crystal said they always welcome donations of food as well as toiletries. “Anything people can donate to us will be most welcome," she said.
“It’s hard for everyone but if we act as a community we can make a difference to people’s lives.
“It’s about awareness too. We’re here and we can help.”
There are more than 150 referral agencies where people who think they need help from the foodbank can go. Crystal explained this is in place so that as well as a three-day food parcel, people can be referred to any places like Citizens Advice Bureau, social work or children's services.
To find out more about Renfrewshire Foodbank and where you can source a referral, go to https://renfrewshire.foodbank.org.uk/
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