Accessing emergency food support
LIVING on a budget is not easy, especially if the money available is very limited.
Add in the unexpected – that accidental overspending on your phone bill or cold spell that required more coinage in the electricity meter for instance – and that cash in your pocket meant to fund a trip to the supermarket has suddenly dwindled to nothing.
If you are new to independent living and just learning to manage your money or experiencing delays to your benefit, this maybe a familiar situation but fortunately help is at hand.
Food banks and food parcels exist to help people – individuals and families – in need. They are meant for emergencies, when the cupboards and fridge really are bare, and provide basic supplies to see you through for a few days.
While there are some independent food banks where referrals aren’t necessary, most require a referral or food voucher. This is something that your OWL support worker or professionals working for social services, citizens advice or other support agencies can help you with.
Here are some of the food banks operating in Leeds and the surrounding area and how you can find out more about them:
Trussell Trust: The best-known provider of food banks in the UK, the Trussell Trust has three food banks in the Leeds and surrounding area covering north and west Leeds, south and east Leeds and Wetherby and district. Referrals in the way of food vouchers are generally needed but this may have changed during the Covid Pandemic while collection centres are closed and food parcels are being delivered. Speak to your support worker for up to date advice. More information is available from: www.leedsnorthandwest.foodbank.org.uk; www.leedssouthandeast.foodbank.org.uk and www.wetherbyanddistrict.foodbank.org.uk
Holbeck Food Bank: Run by The Christian Churches in Holbeck for residents in Holbeck and Beeston. Referral from a support agency needed. Find out more at www.holbeckfoodbank.org.uk
Right Choices Food Bank: Based in Headingley, this food bank is run by volunteers for the most vulnerable in LS2, LS3, LS4, LS5 and LS6. Referral needed. Contact: www.rightchoices.gloweb.net/foodbank
Otley Food Bank: Run by Otley Parish Church to provide food parcels for vulnerable families and individuals in Otley and surrounding areas including Bramhope, Guiseley, Yeadon and Menston. For more information click on www.otleyparishchurch.org/otleyfoodbank
LS26 Community Food Bank: Operating out of Blackburn Hall, Rothwell Weds 10.30-12 noon. No referral needed but ask for a £2 donation if possible. More information available from: www.facebook.com/search/top?q=ls26%20community%20foodbank
Emergency food parcels are also available from St George’s Crypt Armley Shop and St Vincent’s voluntary organisation in East Leeds. For more information check out www.leedsfoodaidnetwork.co.uk
- Our Way Leeds sometimes receives food donations at its offices for passing on free of charge to clients.