Generous public's donations to Hastings Foodbank

Hastings Foodbank said its December foodbank collection last weekend at Tesco in Hollington, St Leonards, saw an 85 per cent increase in donations, compared to the same period last year.

The total amount donated by the public to Hastings Foodbank equals 3,188kg, enough for almost 7,600 meals.

Natalie Williams, communications and community engagement manager for King’s Church Hastings, which runs the foodbank, said: “This is by far our highest collection to date of our Tesco Neighbourhood Foodbank Collections.

“We met a number of people who have used the foodbank in the past who donated food to help others.

At the foodbank on Tuesday (December 6), we had a range of people come in, from an elderly woman in tears because she is suddenly in desperate need, to a man in his 20s who asked us for toilet roll, soap and deodorant because he can’t afford these essentials.”

Jeff Beale, foodbank coordinator, said: “We are very grateful indeed for the continued support of the people of Hastings as demonstrated by their incredible generosity over the weekend at Tesco.

“We are also hugely thankful to the staff of AmicusHorizon, Emmaus and EHKS Countywide Family Keywork team who volunteered for the collection, our regular volunteers, and of course Tesco, which once again excelled in its support.

“One member of staff even came in on her day off to check it was going well.

“The need for the foodbank in Hastings remains evident, and it is very humbling to witness the generosity of people at a time of year that can be pressured for a lot of people.”

Have you checked out our new Christmas section yet?

It’s packed with ideas and tips to ensure you make the most out of the festive season.

There’s recipes, suggestions for presents and everything from choosing your tree to recycling your packaging and paper.

Go to www.hastingsobserver.co.uk/christmas/