A BRADFORD food bank has said that it is “busier than ever” with the effects of the pandemic still being felt and the cost-of-living crisis growing.

Feedo Needo, an award-winning charity organisation which supports those experiencing homelessness, reported that its foodbank – which opened in 2020 – has seen a “sharp rise in demand”.

It said that, pre-pandemic, the food bank served around 40 to 60 families a week, which further increased to 200 families a week - due to the pandemic – before reaching 500 at its peak.

It adds that demand continues to grow, even after lockdown has ended.

Ambreen Hussain, Bradford Co Project Coordinator, said: “59 food aid services were set up in Bradford during the first lockdown to combat the number of people who were made homeless, or could not access food.

“79 per cent of those, including Feedo Needo, delivered food parcels and prepared meals, which shows the reality that a lot of people in Bradford are finding themselves in.

“Our centres are busier than ever, we are now also seeing professionals with jobs needing our services for many reasons, including the cost-of-living going up significantly.”

To volunteer with Feedo Needo, Bradford, or to find out more information on how to donate, visit: https://feedoneedo.org.uk/volunteer.html