Fermanagh and Omagh District council has launched a scheme to help local food banks as part of its wider efforts to help local residents with a £250,000 cost of living programme.
Food banks have been experiencing increased demand for their services in the lead up to Christmas, with demand likely to continue to increase in the coming months.
The council has put together a £12,000 financial package to be allocated to the food banks to help support their service provision to the most vulnerable in the district.
READ MORE: Enniskillen Food Bank thanks community for efforts as demand surges ahead of winter
The support for food banks is one of a number of initiatives being run by the local council to support residents who are most in need due to the impact of the cost of living crisis.
A study carried out by the council identified that families with children, the ‘working poor’, those living with disabilities and older people will be most adversely affected by the crisis.
Among the other initiatives launched by the council is the provision of direct emergency fuel support and support for schools in the setting up of breakfast clubs.
Speaking about the food banks initiative, council chair Barry McElduff said: "I believe that it is essential for the Council to provide financial support to food banks within our District as part of its cost-of-living initiatives.
"I had the opportunity to visit three of the Foodbanks recently and I was very impressed and the effectiveness and efficiency of their operations.
"Those running the service not only hand out the food parcels, they also provide a warm welcome to those coming in and offer them much needed support in a professional and sensitive way. This includes signposting to other sources of support and advice.
"Christmas can be a difficult time for many and this year it will be particularly challenging for many. I would encourage anyone who finds themselves in need to reach out and avail of the food banks.
"I would like to thank all those who have generously donated food items, toiletries and other essential items to the Foodbanks. Every donation makes a tangible difference and directly helps those in greatest need in our District.”
There are currently six registered food banks in the Fermanagh and Omagh District Council area including two in Enniskillen, two in Omagh and one each in Kesh and Lisnaskea. One of the Enniskillen Foodbanks also serves Belleek, Irvinestown and Newtownbutler.
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