Derry Foodbank demand doubles during COVID-19 lockdown with 11 tonnes of food delivered already in 2020

The chair of the charity Denis McGowan said coronavirus and the lockdown were having a deep impact locally.

Back in January, for example, the charity distributed 1,715 kilogrammes of food to 89 families but last month this spiked to 3,572 kilogrammes of food and 182 families.

Mr. McGowan, said: “This dramatic surge in demand has come about at the same time as the Department for Communities food box initiative is being rolled out to support those who are ‘shielding’ and those who cannot afford to buy food. We therefore expect that the numbers coming to the food bank will increase further when the DfC’s scheme ends.”

During the first four months of 2020 Foyle Foodbank delivered over 11 tonnes of goods. Demand was highest in March with 3751 kgs distributed to 195 families.

Mr. McGowan said: “Our supply of food remains strong. The kind people of this city continue to support us generously at our two collection points in Sainbury's and Tesco on the Strand Road. In addition we are receiving many food donations directly at our base in the Apex Living Centre in the Springtown Industrial Estate.

“However in March and April we saw more food being distributed to families than we received in, which would give us concern if the trend continued in the longer term.

"As well as food donations we are also receiving financial support from concerned members of the public which will allow us to buy food as the need arises. We are deeply indebted to all our donors and patrons.”

The charity fears a coronavirus-induced recession or depression in the months ahead may send demand through the roof.

“My colleagues on the management board are very concerned that when the full impact of COVID-19 on the local economy is felt in the months ahead, we will face unprecedented demand at the food bank,” he said.

Denis McGowan, Chairman of the Foyle Foodbank.