More people than ever are coming to food banks in Dundee for essential items as living costs continue to soar, a service has warned.
Last year the team at Menzieshill Food Hub was helping 300 people a week, but as people continue to struggle with the cost of living the need for their support has grown.
Volunteers said they are noticing more people in full-time work still needing parcels to put food on the table.
Volunteer Jen Roger told STV News: “We have a lot of new customers coming in. It’s either feed yourself or fill your metres up.
“People are struggling and it’s not just people on benefits, it’s people who are working too.
“There are lots of people who just can’t afford to pay that £2 either, so we provide a free bag as well. That will last them for one night or maybe tide them over for just a day.
“But we’ll always look after somebody, even if they have no money.”
As well as food parcels and toiletries, volunteer Kevin said they also hand out vouchers for essential items.
He added: “In the summer months we give people vouchers so they can get extra food and in the winter months we give them vouchers for warm clothing and blankets so people can keep themselves cosy.”
As part of their budget, Dundee City Council have allocated £1.5m towards tackling social inequality in the city.
Half a million pounds from that funding is going toward supporting the Dundee Food Network, who provide essential items for those struggling with the cost of living crisis.
Council leader John Alexander said: “Just because we’re in warmer weather doesn’t mean those challenges, those problems faces by households right across Dundee are not still there.
“So we are continuing our efforts and continuing our work to identify the support that’s required. Just last week we announced half a million pounds of expenditure going into support food banks and the food network in Dundee.
“And that’s a really pivotal part of the range of measures we’re putting into place.”
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