Food banks need our help as donations decline but those needing help increases.

Bridport and Beaminster food banks are still in need of tinned and dry foods.

A spokesman for Bridport food bank, Cupboard Love, said: “We are delivering all food parcels as it’s safer than everyone having to come to the church. We are seeing an increase in people needing help.

“We have seen a drop in donations, but if you are limited to two cans, you’re less able to put something in the donation trolley [at Morrisons]. However, we have had an increase in cash donations, which can be done by bank transfer without leaving the house.

“But this still leaves us with the problem of items we need being rationed or not available. This week’s problem has been UHT milk.

“We always need tinned meat products, tinned vegetables, including tomatoes and potatoes, pasta sauces, pasta, rice, breakfast cereals, sugar, coffee and toiletries.”

Donations can be made to DCC of St Mary’s of Bridport with the account number 27309360 and sort code 30-67-89 and the reference of Cupboard Love.

Beaminster Food Bank is also in need of donations and if has revised the way it is accessed.

The food bank will be open on Mondays and Fridays from 10am to 12noon. People do not need a referral but they must call in advance on 01308 861030 to ask for a food parcel so that helpers can arrange for them to collect it at a specific time from outside the building. This is very important and must be adhered to in order to observe social distancing and keep everyone safe.

Delivery may be arranged for those who are self-isolating, through Beaminster Community Support and those picking up food parcels are asked to bring their own bags.

Gina Bailey, who helps run the food bank, said: “People have been very generous with monetary donations, but if people are able we would welcome donations of tinned or dry goods, such as cereal, rice and pasta, which would be very much appreciated as they are very difficult to get hold of at the moment.

“There are donation points at the Co-op and the chemist in Beaminster or can be dropped at the food bank during opening times.”