Salisbury Foodbank Issues Urgent Call For Support

Salisbury Foodbank is calling on the community to support people facing hardship as need remains persistently high.

As autumn begins, food banks see a rise in demand as households face increasing financial pressures, higher energy costs, and the approach of winter. 

Maria Stevenson – Manager at Salisbury Foodbank says there are many ways local people can support – from donations of Money or Food to raising awareness - will make a big difference for the people accessing the foodbank.

“This Harvest season, we are reaching out to Salisbury and Southeast Wiltshire’s local communities to help support our work to break the burden of food insecurity & isolation on those in hardship, so that no one feels alone in their journey.

“For many of the people who receive our support, walking through the doors of the food bank is one of the few social interactions they will have that week. We have become increasingly aware that we are not just providing them with food but also the hope of a welcome and connection.

"We need the help of the community during Harvest to continue to address hunger in Salisbury and Southeast Wiltshire and provide the warmth of hospitality to those who have nothing or no one else to lean on.

“We are launching our Harvest appeal, with fresh hope that we can exceed last year’s food donations and also highlight we need vital financial donations to keep our own lights on this winter!”

Over the last year, food banks in the Trussell community have experienced record levels of need as more people struggle to afford the essentials, and it is likely that this situation will only worsen this winter – so this Harvest is a particularly important time for local communities to support the foodbank.

Locals are urged to help in many ways, including:

1. Donating non-perishable goods, such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and hygiene products. 
2. Making financial contributions, which allow the charity to purchase essential items and run operations efficiently.   https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/foodbankharvest2026

Foodbank list of required items:

• Long Life Fruit Juice
• Tinned Meat
• Tinned Vegetables
• Sponge/Packet Puddings/Angel Delight
• Custard
• Jam & Spreads
• Deodorant & Toothbrushes
• 2-in-1 Shampoo/Conditioner
• Chocolate & Treats

Beth* a disabled person who needed support from the foodbank earlier this year, says: “It is stressful and a little shameful that at times I have been unable to buy myself shopping. I receive PIP (Personal Independence Payment) and I’m self-employed, which is sometimes unpredictable and not as successful as it might be. hence needing additional help as the cost of everything has become so expensive that eating and being clean has become a luxury.”

Emma Revie, chief executive at Trussell, says: “We know that many people turn to food banks as a last resort and feel embarrassed that they need to ask for help, but food banks across the country are there to offer a warm welcome, provide essential items and help people access services that can lift them out of poverty.

“By coming together and supporting Salisbury Foodbank this Harvest and through to winter, you are not just offering a meal – you are extending a hand of friendship, combating isolation, and helping to provide an environment where everyone is valued.”

*Case study name has been changed.