You're Not Alone — And You're Not Failing
The idea that asking for help is something to be embarrassed about is outdated and harmful.
Everyone needs support sometimes. Using a foodbank doesn’t mean you’ve failed — it means you’re doing what you need to do to take care of yourself or your family.
You wouldn’t think twice about using the NHS when you’re unwell. So why feel any different about using a foodbank when you need a bit of extra help putting meals on the table? These resources exist because no one should have to go hungry, ever.
Foodbanks Are for Everyone in Need — Including You
The reality is, many people who use foodbanks are working — sometimes full-time — but still struggling to make ends meet. It’s not about laziness or poor choices. It’s about a system that often doesn’t leave enough breathing room.
If you’ve had to choose between heating your home and feeding yourself, or if your wages aren’t stretching as far as they used to, you’re not alone. Foodbanks are there to fill that gap — no judgement, just support.
Dignity, Not Charity
Modern foodbanks are built around dignity. They aim to offer not just food, but kindness, a listening ear, and often signposting to additional help. It’s not just about giving out tins and pasta — it’s about lifting people up.
If you’re feeling anxious about going to a foodbank, remember this: the people running them care deeply. They understand. They’re there because they want to help, not to judge.
Paying It Forward — Even While You're Still Struggling
You might be thinking, “I hate taking without being able to give back.” That’s a completely human feeling — but let’s reframe it. There are ways to pay it forward, even if you’re still working through your own challenges:
Share your story, if you feel comfortable – speaking openly (even anonymously) helps remove the stigma and shows others they’re not alone.
Offer your time – when you’re in a better place, consider volunteering. Foodbanks always need hands and hearts.
Donate later – if you can't give now, maybe in the future you’ll be in a position to pop a couple of items in a donation bin or support a fundraiser.
Support others emotionally – a kind word online or in your community to someone who’s struggling can make a world of difference.
Foodbanks aren’t about charity. They’re about community. They’re about not letting anyone fall through the cracks. And one day, if and when you're in a position to give back, you’ll do it with understanding and compassion — because you’ve been there, and you know.
So if times are tight, take the help. That’s what it’s there for. You don’t need to explain, apologise or feel bad. There’s no shame — just people helping people. And that’s something truly powerful.
How can you find out about foodbanks that can help you or who you could help in the future? Here's a list:-
United Kingdom
1. The Trussell Trust
The largest foodbank network in the UK, operating over 1,300 centres. They provide emergency food parcels and support services.
Find a Trussell Trust foodbank near you
2. Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN)
A network of over 550 independent foodbanks across the UK, offering a range of food aid services.
3. The Salvation Army
Operates foodbanks and provides food parcels through many of its churches and community centres.
https://www.salvationarmy.org.uk/foodbanks
4. FareShare
Distributes surplus food to charities and community groups, including foodbanks and community kitchens.
Learn more about FareShare's food support
https://fareshare.org.uk/getting-food/food-service-for-individuals/
5. Local Council Services
Many local councils provide information on foodbanks and food support services in their areas.
Ireland (Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland)
1. FoodCloud (Community FoodLink)
Connects businesses with surplus food to charities and community groups, including foodbanks.
Explore FoodCloud's Community FoodLink
https://food.cloud/community-foodlink
2. Crosscare
Based in Dublin, Crosscare operates foodbanks and distributes food to various charities across Ireland.
Learn more about Crosscare
https://www.centreforglobaleducation.com/food-bank-ireland
3. Simon Communities of Ireland
Provides support to individuals experiencing homelessness, including food services.
🔗 Find services through Simon Communities
https://www.simon.ie/our-network-of-communities/
4. Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP)
Offers a range of support services, including food assistance, across Ireland.
Access SVP's services