A combination of benefit changes and the summer holidays has seen a surge in demand for help from Dundee Foodbank.
Between April 1 and July 23, the charity has fed 2,150 people – up nearly 10% from the 1,960 individuals helped over the same period last year.
Manager Ken Linton said the rise in demand was due to both the introduction of Universal Credit and the summer holidays putting more pressure on cash-strapped families.
He said: “We support the Fun and Summer Food programme by giving cereals so know the need is out there but Universal Credit is also playing a part.
“Changes to their benefits are leaving people with less money.
“Every thing costs more – a McDonald’s or an ice cream will be more expensive than it was last year so it puts extra pressure on families.”
Mr Linton said people across Dundee are continuing to support appeals for donations but that demand is continuing to increase.
He said the charity particularly needs donations of tinned vegetables, tinned fruit and tinned puddings.
Dundee’s two MPs, Stewart Hosie and Chris Law, have appealed for the public to donate to the Foodbank and have added a donation point at their shared office on 8 Old Glamis Road.
Dundee East representative Mr Hosie said: “It is scandalous that in this day and age so many people are forced into relying on foodbanks for their basic necessities.
“The UK Government should be ashamed of their policies which have driven so many into destitution and have created such a reliance on charities and third sector organisations such as Dundee Foodbank.”
The SNP MP added: “Dundee is a city known for its generosity therefore I hope people will continue to do what they can to help. No one should have to go to bed hungry or worry about where their next meal is going to come from or when they can next expect to eat.”
Dundee West MP Mr Law said: “Dundee Foodbank do excellent work helping those in need, particularly during pressing times, but that work relies on the sustained support of members of the Dundee community.”
A DWP spokesman said: “Universal credit is a flexible and responsive benefit and we continue to listen to feedback and make any necessary improvements during the rollout with our test-and-learn approach.
“We are committed to ensuring people get the help they need and the majority of staff say universal credit gives them greater flexibility to give people the right support. The latest figures show 83% of claimants are satisfied with the system and complaint rates are low.”
