Today in Alton there are families struggling to put food on the table. 8.6% of people in our area are believed to be in fuel poverty. These families will be forced to make a choice this winter between food or fuel. For people on low incomes, a sudden crisis - redundancy, benefit delay or an unexpected bill can mean going hungry.

Alton Foodbank has been set up by The Butts church with the help of The Trussell Trust. Most of churches in Alton and surrounding villages are involved in support and together with them we are able to issue food to needy families on a regular basis.

Since the launch of the foodbank in November 2011 we have issued a three day supply of food to 1000 children and adults a year. Food comes in regularly from church collection crates which many churches have and we have had very successful food collections local supermarkets.

In addition to the foodbank, we also have a uniform bank for primary and secondary school age children. This can be accessed via food vouchers or directly via a request from the school. We also offer computer access to assist clients in job applications etc.

The foodbank is open Wednesdays and Saturdays at our distribution centre, 15 Market Square, Alton. GU34 1HD For more information, visit the Alton Foodbank website: alton.foodbank.org.uk