Rutland Foodbank has released an 'autumn wish-list' of items most needed by the service and its users ahead of the harvest.

Rutland Foodbank are a local charity supporting residents who are suffering food poverty. The demand for their services has seen a sharp increase following the cost-of-living crisis.

Over the last year, the team has fed record numbers, including nearly 1,000 local children.

Despite having already handed out ingredients for 44,583 meals, the Rutland Foodbank team are inundated with calls for help from local groups, individuals and households.

As such, they have shared a 'shopping list' of the goods most requested in the hopes that the Rutland community can, once again, come together to support one another.

Ali Wainwright, Chair of Trustees at Rutland Foodbank said: "As you might guess we are busier than ever with 337 referrals since 1st April. This is an increase of 24% compared with the same period last year. Since 1st April we have provided ingredients for over 18,000 meals. 

"Despite an anticipated and completely understandable drop in food & toiletry donations we are still able to pick & pack 7-day packs and continue our delivery service across the whole county. 

"We are able to manage our stocks by buying in items we distribute regularly and which we find we short of from time to time. Fortunately we have some very generous supporters who help fund this via regular giving.

"It would be remiss of me if I didn’t acknowledge our amazing volunteers, supporters and donors who together are helping fellow Rutland residents who are struggling at this time. A wonderful community effort. Thank you all!"

Goods required include:

• UHT milk
• tinned meats and pies
• tinned vegetables
• custard
• rice puddings
• crackers and crispbreads
• shower gel and soaps
• razors

The team have plenty of soups, beans, and tinned fish.

Rutland Foodbank is looking for goods ahead of the autumn harvest. Image credit: Rutland Foodbank.

Call 07582 783363 to find out how and where to donate.

Those wishing to donate money can do so here.

Find out more on the Rutland Foodbank website, where you can donate or access support from the local team.