THE Isle of Wight Foodbank has spent ten years supporting local people in crisis — by dishing out more than 46,000 emergency food parcels.

Since it was established in 2011, more than 28,000 adults and 18,000 children have received a parcel containing three days worth of food.

Foodbank manager Hannah King said: “For the past ten years I have consistently felt humbled by the commitment, dedication and generosity that has enabled the foodbank to support those who have come to us.

"For all who have donated food and finances I thank you.

"I have absolute admiration and respect for our teams of volunteers who give their time in so many ways in assisting us in helping those in need within our local community and without them, we would not be able to achieve the level of service we offer.

"Over the last couple of decades, foodbanks across the UK have provided incredible, practical support to people in poverty.

"However, we are acutely aware that this kind of response shouldn’t be needed and so our goal is to have an Island that has no need for a foodbank.”

The Isle of Wight Foodbank began with just a handful of volunteers in a Cowes warehouse, providing necessary food to up to 50 people each month, and now distributes from five centres around the Isle of Wight.

At its maximum, before the pandemic, it was operating with almost 200 volunteers and, during its busiest month it provided over 900 emergency food parcels.

Isle of Wight County Press: Cowes - IW Foodbank receiving the Queen's Award at Northwood House. Left, former IW High Sheriff Gioia Minghella with IW Foodbank Manager Hannah King and former Lord Lieutenant Major General Martin White.Cowes - IW Foodbank receiving the Queen's Award at Northwood House. Left, former IW High Sheriff Gioia Minghella with IW Foodbank Manager Hannah King and former Lord Lieutenant Major General Martin White.

The foodbank team wishes to thank the generous Island community who have shown ongoing support, enabling it to continue, and the volunteers, staff and trustees who have made the foodbank what it is today.

It also thanked the churches and YMCA which host the foodbank centres, and the many churches, shops, schools, businesses, fundraisers, ambassadors, groups, and individuals who continually show support by donating time, expertise, food, and funds.

Those who use the foodbank are signposted to professionals who provide necessary help and opportunities to move forward.

A highlight was being awarded the Queens’ Award for Voluntary Service.

To find out how to help, got to isleofwight.foodbank.org.uk or follow it on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.