Honiton's VegBank sees rise in demand as the cost of living increases

A food donation scheme in Honiton is seeing increased demand, with the number of people using the service each week rising to between 75 and 100.

VegBank is a stall which is placed outside 30 Queen Street and it is available between 10.00am and 5pm.

Fruit and vegetables are placed on the stall and people can take what they need for free, or they can donate, if and when they are able to.

The fruit and vegetables come from local growers who donate the food, nearby markets, and a lot is grown onsite.

Vegetables are sourced either on foot or by bike, making VegBank's carbon footprint as low as possible.

The stall has been running for six years. VegBank's organiser explained one reason why he started the scheme: "It was set up to ensure everyone in this area has a free supply of fresh fruit and vegetables."

In addition: "We also set up the Vegbank because Honiton Foodbank seems unable to supply fresh fruit and veg to their users. When anyone is anxious or stressed, as most foodbank users are, it is essential that they get the best nutrition possible.

"This is why we started: so that no one ever goes hungry, and everyone gets a complete, nutritious diet.

"We deal with all ages, from the elderly who only want to get one item at a time to families who are struggling to feed themselves. Most users come and take what they need and we never see them".

The organiser of VegBank would like to see a free vegetable source in every town:

"There could and should be VegBank stalls in all areas of the UK, where anyone in need takes what they want and those with surplus put it on the stall."

He also encourages individuals to start growing their own fruit and vegetables: "If we grew more at home, it would be a win-win all round.

"Good for the families to grow and pick together so that everyone learns how it is done. It also gives the warmth of satisfaction knowing you are eating the food you grew yourself."

Over the years, the demand for VegBank has steadily risen, making it difficult to get enough produce each day.

"The demand increase is a multiple issue. The main causes are the prices rising on all goods, including food and electricity and the government stopping the extra £20 for those on universal credit.

"I talk to users who are broke because bills have used up all their money. They only want a few things, but they don't like to take them without putting some money in the donation pot.

"It takes me a while to convince them it is okay and they can donate at a later date. This is happens most days.

We are hoping Santa is going to bring a sleigh full of fresh fruit and vegetables."

VegBank is available daily from 10am – 5pm outside 30 Queen Street. They can be contacted on [email protected]