Food banks across the West Midlands are bracing for a significant “winter surge” as thousands of elderly people, working families, and carers face increasing financial pressure. Last winter, from December 2024 to February 2025, over 61,000 emergency food parcels were distributed in the region—a 27% increase from pre-pandemic levels five years ago.
The additional strain of higher energy bills due to the cold weather is expected to push demand even higher this year. Food banks supported by the Trussell Trust in the West Midlands provided nearly 22,000 food parcels for children last winter, marking a 19% rise compared to before the pandemic. More alarmingly, aid to people aged 65 and over skyrocketed by 171% from pre-pandemic figures, with more than 1,900 parcels given to this vulnerable group.
Over 6,400 families accessed a Trussell food bank for the first time last winter, underscoring the growing need for assistance. The Trust warns that tens of thousands of emergency food parcels will be required again during the cold months ahead, as soaring costs of essentials like food, electricity, and rent continue to push families to the brink.
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Despite this urgent need, more than half (58%) of Trussell Trust food banks nationally report that demand still outpaces donations. Many food banks find themselves at breaking point, forced to purchase large quantities of food to meet demand. In the West Midlands alone, food banks spent an estimated £315,000 last winter on food, highlighting a troubling gap between donations and need.
The Trussell Trust is urging the public to support local food banks wherever possible. Jane Baker, manager at Newcastle-Staffs Foodbank, emphasizes the critical nature of the situation: “We are bracing for another difficult winter. Working families, carers, and pensioners are walking through our doors hungry. Food banks aren’t the answer, but right now, they’re a lifeline. Donations are down while costs surge. Without support, we might not survive next year.”
Sophie Carre, Trussell Trust’s director of engagement, echoes this call: “Christmas should be a time of joy, but far too many will struggle just to get by. Food banks don’t only offer emergency food—they provide hope, dignity, and connection. As the coldest months approach, we need help more than ever.”
Carre adds that donations help cover urgent needs—from buying food and essentials like hot water bottles and blankets for those who cannot afford heating, to meeting rising operational costs.
The Trussell Trust thanks all those who continue to stand with food banks, ensuring no one faces hunger alone this winter.