WORCESTER foodbank is appealing for supermarket gift cards to help deal with the "oncoming storm".

The foodbank recently published its Christmas Shopping List for 2022, and the top priority for this year is gift cards.

Grahame Lucas, manager of Worcester Foodbank, has said that the "oncoming storm" caused by the cost of living crisis and rising energy bills has meant the foodbank has had to change the way it operates.

He said: "Things have been really busy this year on the build-up to Christmas. Last month we saw a 33% increase in demand for our service compared to October 2021.

"It has really confirmed our fears regarding the effects of the rising bills. For many Christmas is a wonderful time but for many others, it is a really tough time of year.

"We have spent the last six weeks reorganising the foodbank ready for the oncoming storm, ensuring we have the space and necessary items."

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Mr Lucas also said that due to donations turning to money-based instead of food items, it has meant more time being used by volunteers going to collect items themselves in bulk.

As well as the gift cards, the charity also puts together seasonal Christmas packs so that those in need of its services can still enjoy treats and traditional festive snacks.

This year, 11 items have been listed to the public if they are wanting to contribute to the Christmas packs.

These items include:

  • Christmas Cake
  • Mincemeat
  • Chutney
  • Cranberry Sauce
  • Pickled Beetroot
  • Pickled Onions
  • Cheese Biscuits
  • Savoury Snacks (not nuts)
  • Cheeselet Drum
  • Twiglet Drum
  • Chocolates

For the storehouse, the foodbank is also appealing for dried stuffing, gravy granules, bread sauce and canned ham.

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Worcester Foodbank also accepts money and gift cards to enable staff to buy what is needed.

The foodbank can only accept donations of unopened and undamaged goods which are still within their “use by” date.

To donate, you can visit Worcester Foodbank at Unit 7, Lowesmoor Wharf, or at local participating supermarkets and organisations.

To donate online, you can visit www.worcester.foodbank.org.uk.