A foodbank is starting back up in Dublin 12 as people continue to grapple with rising costs.
The D12 FoodBank first started during the pandemic to assist people struggling to feed themselves and their families. Mark O'Toole, the group's founder, said that there was high demand for the foodbank's services as people faced unemployment during lockdown.
However, the group was forced to take a hiatus when lockdown ended and activities recommenced in the community centre. However, the initiative will soon make a return amid the cost of living crisis, with organisers seeking out volunteers willing to lend a hand.
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Mark told Dublin Live: " It was with a heavy heart that we closed because we knew that demand hadn’t gone down- if anything it was quite the opposite with rising costs. There’s a whole new level of food insecurity that people are experiencing now for the first time."
The group is hoping to resume food collections next month. The foodbank will organise drop off points at both Crumlin Village and the Cherrytree Pub in Walkinstown, although organisers hope to expand to more locations in the future.
People with an interest in getting to know their local community are encouraged to volunteer. Mark said that the group is always on the lookout for donations from the public, as well as people who are willing to drop off food items to people's homes using their own transport.
He said: "Anyone of a certain age in Ireland has experienced some form of food insecurity in their lives. It’s a horrible thing and for all people know the food could be going towards their next door neighbour."
Both residents and local businesses have been instrumental in the foodbank's past success. Mark is hopeful that more businesses will get on board in donating non perishable foods, such as cereal and rice, to the cause.
He added: "One business that was superb was Supervalu Walkinstown. We want to give full recognition to the people that help us and arrangements were made there for us to get our food at wholesale prices."
It is expected that the group will organise collections for people in need from the end of May, as preparations continue for the foodbank's relaunch. Anyone interested in volunteering can get in touch through the group's Facebook page or can email Mark at d12foodbank@gmail.com.
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