Help with Free food parcels

Avocado

NeverInDebt that's more or less how our local foodbank works. There is a box just beyond the checkouts in all the local supermarkets with a big list on the backboard of what kinds of things they would like you to leave in it. People just pop things in, a lot like the animal charity collection boxes for cat/dog food which I've seen nation-wide. Our food bank also have a charity shop which seems to generate the money for running the van and for fresh milk and bread to be added to the boxes. Many food banks have an upper limit on how long they can supply food. Ours doesn't, they will keep giving boxes as long as there keeps being a verified crisis. Ours is a pretty well established part of the community really.

beautifylife

Thanks eveyone for your ideas, and support.

My experience on this difficult financial journey has been a real mix of responses. Some really kind and understanding and others judgemental and uncompassionate. I speak from experience of having judged others in my head but not outloud on occasion, being on the end of living on £49 a week for everything concentrates the mind and has deeply changed some of my previous views.

It really has increased my compassion and understanding for others, what I previously took for granted and didn't always value. Having the luxury of not thinking about EVERY single purchase, even if it is a loaf of bread for 20p.

It has been a sobering experience and not one I would wish on anyone. Getting a food parcel can mean the difference between putting the heating on in the dead of winter or not. I am using this site to really be resourceful and help myself. Rather than being a victim I am taking action of every kind I can and I think those who are should be encouraged. Lots of people who feel too much shame or embarrassment often read these types of posts and so it's not just about my needs. I hope it helps others too.

I just wanted to share some of my experience as others have done to, to offer a window into a different experience - nothing more.

thanks again.

NeverInDebt

I am glad that some supermarkets do. I am all for this, nothing more that gets up my goat is being pressured to give to charity but I have given in past to those that don't and also to animal charities tins of cat food etc. I know its difficult ironing out the free-loaders and I think we know there will be some who are despicable and yes it will be very hard to wean them out. I know many low income families are struggling even when at work, the minimum wage for instance is far too low I know its just increased but its the real costs of energy, food, fuel that have eroded many incomes down to pittance

Katiehound

Maybe I have missed it, having had a quick read through all the posts but in this town we have a group parish and there is a parish worker who would be the person to contact, and she would have her finger on the pulse. For example they have just set up a credit union which is open once a week in church.

satchmo1

Hi Beautifylife

I hope you are managing ok, and I've been thinking about possible ways to manage your difficulties longer term.

Have you checked out the Old Style board on here, which has brilliant menu plans with very cost-conscious ingredients. They know how to strrrretch ingredients to the max - e.g. lentils or oats in stews to make them go so much further.

You haven't posted a statement of affairs (someone clever will be able to direct you to the spreadsheet on here). If you could do that you'll get great advice on ways to make cuts with regular bills.

Lots of debt free wannabe's find keeping a spending diary helps them spot where they are spending on smaller items, which when added together can have a big impact on your budget.

I hope some of that helps.

Hugs, Satchmo x

beautifylife

Hi satchmo1 - thank you for your thoughtful concern, I am grateful to receive it.

Yes I have checked out the OS boards and have been using all the ideas, I batch cook now which helps to stop the panic about what to make out of a few ingredients. I've also been preparing for winter where I can just so I can keep costs to the bone. I'm managing to keep the heating off so far, the thermals are on though!

I do keep a strict budget of my spending (which I've had some help with) but to be honest with the amount I have to spend you can only cut so far. £49 for everything not just food, but bills, heating, phone, water, all the essentials etc (I don't use a car or tv), it's a bit like trying to live off fresh air! I also have a shortfall in my rent to make up due to my HB not covering it. So Im spending most of my time really keeping warm, food in fridge, ie keeping the basics of life going.

I am also studying and working at the same time so I am not just loafing around in case that was a question for someone!

I appreciate the ideas.