'I grew up living on baked beans... now others might face the same struggle'

Published date27 March 2024
Publication titleManchester Evening News: Web Edition Articles (England)
Despite tireless efforts to support struggling members of the community, the charity is on the brink of financial collapse. Founder Jen Savaris says the end could be weeks away

Mounting bills and a lack of donations have made things increasingly difficult.

"If we don't find the funding in the next six weeks, the charity will have to close," she said. "We've [taken] desperate measures to ensure we can stay open for our clients.

"We know there are a lot of people who rely on our services -for location and access -and it would be a massive loss if we closed our doors."

The outfit supports more than 200 people across south and central Manchester. Jen says increased demand has made things incredibly hard.

The charity has applied for funds but Jen says the growing demand for support from other charities has intensified competition for help.

She said: "It's nearly £350 a month just to keep the freezers running and to keep our foodbank running. It costs approximately £1,700 a week.

"The increase in bills and food market supplies has skyrocketed to a difficult level for us. We're even seeing low stock in our most secure foods like rice and pasta. This is having a detrimental effect on us to ensure our clients are well supported."

The foodbank -which offers essential items ranging from non-perishable foods to hygiene products; baby food; and items for people with special dietary requirements -now faces challenges in stocking even the most basic necessities.

Its future hangs in the balance.

Jen, who grew up in poverty, knows first-hand the struggles of accessing support and the emotional toll it can take on families.

She added: "Getting school uniforms was a struggle for us. I remember living off baked beans and crying to my teacher. My mum...

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