The items you can donate in support of your local food bank during lockdown

The Trussell Trust supports a network of food banks across the UK – including a number in the North East – and has issued advice on some of the items which go into food parcels and donation packs for families in need.

A number of independently-run and community food banks are also in operation in various locations across the region.

Their volunteers also need your support with donations, as more people turn to the vital services during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Trussell Trust recommends donating food through dropping off parcels at your local food bank or at supermarket collection points while you do your own shopping.

Procedures for accepting donations may have changed due to the second lockdown; please check with the food bank you wish to support for their most up-to-date opening times and how to donate safely.

According to the Trussell Trust, a typical food parcel from one of its banks may include:

*Cereal

*Soup

*Pasta

*Rice

*Tinned tomatoes/pasta sauce

*Lentils, beans and pulses

*Tinned meat

*Tinned vegetables

*Tea/coffee

*Tinned fruit

*Biscuits

*UHT milk

*Fruit juice

Food banks also provide essential non-food items such as toiletries and hygiene products.

Here are some of the toiletry items you can donate:

*Toiletries – deodorant, toilet paper, shower gel, shaving gel, shampoo, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand wipes

*Household items – laundry liquid detergent, laundry powder, washing up liquid

*Feminine products – sanitary towels and tampons

*Baby supplies – nappies, baby wipes and baby food

*Face masks and hand sanitiser

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