More people becoming dependent on Foodbank support, warns founder

Concern around rising cost of living

More people on the Island are becoming dependent on support from the Isle of Man Foodbank.

That's the message from the chief executive and founder of the charitable initiative, in light of rising inflation and cost of living in the Isle of Man.

The Isle of Man Foodbank provides crisis support in the form of food parcels, support plans to help people become independent and advice on cooking with minimal facilities.

Neal Mellon says he's thankful for donations from the Manx public but is warning that it can't be a long-term solution:

"It's a complete blot and shame on the Isle of Man that we still have a foodbank."

Treasury Minister David Ashford MHK and Treasury Member Sarah Maltby MHK were confronted by a listener, Andrew, on Manx Radio's Mannin Line on Monday about plans to ensure people no longer need to rely on the foodbank's support:

Meanwhile, a couple who have helped provide free meals for people in the community during the Covid-19 pandemic say their work will continue whilst people are struggling.

Sammi Farrell runs IOM Community Meal Donations with her husband.

They began preparing hot, home cooked, meals during the pandemic and have continued to offer the service to the elderly and vulnerable.

And despite raising more than £3,000 in donations to help continue the work Sammi says people shouldn't think the job is complete:

You can find more information about the scheme here.