Throughout the entire year 2022, food banks have been under severe pressure.
As the cost of living increased and inflation reached its highest level in forty years, a record number of people sought their assistance.
But not just food was in demand this holiday season; sanitary goods were also frequently sought.
One food bank in Bangor reported an increase in hygiene poverty among its clients.
Behind Bangor Cathedral, there is typically a continual, long line of customers requesting packages half an hour after the doors open.
One volunteer reports that the situation would remain unchanged until 16:00 GMT on Sunday.
This army of volunteers is currently packing bags with food and hygiene goods.
In recent months, as food prices have risen, this food bank reported a 100 percent increase in demand.
Archbishop of Wales, the Most Reverend Andrew John, stated, “On the one side, we are proud to operate something like this because the need is so enormous, but on the other hand, we are sad that so many people are dependent on us.
What you see here, how crowded it is – it’s a typical day – is evidence that this service is becoming vital.
To combat hygienic poverty, the Church in Wales sponsors the Food and Fuel campaign, which challenges churches across Wales to fill boxes with shampoo, soap, and sanitary items.
“Hygiene poverty is one of the most invisible characteristics of poverty.
“We want to ensure that no one suffers the effects of embarrassment, so we’re supplying soaps, sanitary towels, gels, and food so that no one experiences this type of humiliation,” he continued.
The Bangor center is a sea of plastic bags and volunteers like Lesley Evans labor tirelessly to prepare everything for those in need.
This Christmas, folks are feeling the pinch, so we’re really busy.
Regarding the issue of hygiene poverty, Ms. Evans emphasized the necessity for discretion in greetings.
“If you need it, you need it, and many people are hesitant to express their needs, but we strive to make it as easy and casual as possible so that they’re pleased to speak with us.
“A mother came here crying because she had to come to the food bank on Christmas Day to feed her children.
We did our best to provide her with a little bit more because we recognise her need.
