Monday 29 April 2013

Food banks bailout unlikely

There doesn't seem to be a week go by without Food Banks getting a mention in the media. The Trussell Trust, probably one of the main players in establishing food banks in the UK, recorded nearly 350,000 individuals since last April used their services, a huge increase from just over 60,000 in 2010 - 2011. (1)
Glasgow food banks appear to be seeing a similar trend. (2) 

At Glasgow City Mission we're seeing a steady growth in the number of people coming to use our services. We are also getting requests of food parcels and emergency aid over the phone and at the door. I wonder back in 1826 if at the founding of Glasgow City Mission they envisaged a day sometime in the future where this kind of social action would no longer be necessary in a so called 'developed' society. I wonder if they thought in 2013 there would still be a need for such a service. It would be lovely to say that in our 5 year plan due to lack of need, we will be closing our services (there are no such plans afoot!!)

We've been caring for the vulnerable and marginalised in Glasgow for sometime now, however it appears as if a new and quite separate group of people within our society are those who are using food banks. This group don't live the chaotic lifestyle that many at the mission experience, however they are under significant pressure to make ends meet, and food banks are often the safety net that they require.

I am increasingly thrilled to see churches in particular getting behind these ventures and volunteers from the faith community enabling such projects. However I am deeply saddened about how this reflects on our culture. Why is it acceptable to us to see food banks appearing throughout the UK? Is there a five year plan to see a reduction of food banks? Are they here to stay? Or due to popularity or necessity would the government ever 'bail them out'

Please continue to support your local food bank. We are certainly giving our more food parcels than ever before and would really appreciate tinned foods, however let us also consider what kind of society we'd like to live in and what responsibility local and national government have to play in alleviating poverty.

Pray for those in authority, pray for wisdom, discernment, compassion and courage.(3)

1. http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/news/350000-people-now-rely-on-food-banks-8585266.html?origin=internalSearch
2. http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/glasgow-food-bank-struggles-to-meet-demand-122399n.20855993
3. 1 Timothy 2:1,2