LOCAL MP Michelle Donelan is backing a Chippenham Food Bank appeal for more donations of food and cash as it is now running low on stocks.

She is helping to secure more food collection points in local stores and has called for more food and donations.

The MP said: “I know just how the far-reaching the consequences of lockdown have been on many of my own constituents.“Numerous Government schemes of financial assistance have been able to do a great deal in protecting both businesses and individuals.“I cannot underestimate the important role that community groups and volunteers have played.“I have been helping thousands of constituents during the last few months and directing them to our wonderful community groups.

“It is my duty to ensure that as a community we can continue to help one another, which is why I am backing Chippenham Food Banks’s appeal.”

The foodbank, which works out of the Salvation Army in Chippenham, has been helping local people in extra need during the pandemic.

On average, volunteers are issuing £4,000-£4,500 worth of food weekly to people in need in the Chippenham, Calne and Malmesbury areas.The foodbank relies heavily on donations of food from the local churches so as the weeks have gone on they are now in need to ensure they can continue to support the community.

The group has received help from new and existing volunteers, generous donations of money and food from The Salvation Army, Morrison, Nestle, Wiltshire Foundation Trust, Chippenham Rotary Club, Chippenham Borough Lands Charitable Trust, local firms and individuals.

However, they now need help as they run low on some essential items, particularly tinned food, especially meat and fruit, cereal, rice, pasta, jam, biscuits, baby milk, nappies, toiletries, tea, plus cat and dog food.

Adrian, a Church and Rotarian volunteer, said: “Each week since the pandemic lockdown occurred, many Church and Rotarian volunteers have been helping at the food bank.

“On one busy day we made up weekly food parcels for 30 households, many of which had to be delivered.

“Initially, obtaining the necessary produce was a problem, now we are constrained by finances and donations as items become more available in the shops.

“It is clear from the feedback that the food parcels are making a real difference to some of our most vulnerable households in our society. If we can keep going with the towns’ help, we can have a meaningful impact on those most in need at this very difficult time.”To donate food, drop off items at the Salvation Army headquarters in Foghamshire, Chippenham, every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9am-3pm.

To donate money, make out cheques to the Salvation Army with food bank written on the back, or donate by bank transfer via Reliance bank, account number 00178123, sort code 60-01-73, account name SATCo General income reference 11000 CH22 GR1 DON.