I am a resident of Hackney, London, and this issue is deeply personal to me.

When things take a turn for the worse, I've had to use the local brunch of the Trussell Trust - Hackney Foodbank. They gave me digital vouchers to purchase what I needed from the local stores and markets. This system allowed me to get fresh food when I needed it and that suited my dietary needs rather than receiving a pre-packaged box with items that I often couldn't use.

Here is how it was before:
https://www.hackney.foodbank.org.uk/phone-to-food

Now the staff at the foodbank told me that this option has been taken away - they management decided not to use the system anymore. They didn't explain the reasons and I can't see why they decided to give up on what was so good for so many visitors. It worked so good for 3 years. It started working during the Pandemic, why stopped now?!

Now I was again given a box of cans and near expired packages without any choice or consideration for my individual needs. I adpricictae all the help I am given, but this not only leads to waste but also fails to provide me with the necessary nutrition.

Hackney is one of the most diverse and deprived areas in England with so many families with children living in poverty. The need for food support is high and it's crucial that this support is effective and respectful of personal needs. This voucher system helped people a lot!!!

I urge the authorities responsible for managing Hackney Foodbank to reinstate the system of digital vouchers. This will allow individuals like myself who rely on these services not just be given what we are told but also enjoy dignity by giving us some control over our own lives.

Please sign this petition if you believe everyone should have access to suitable fresh food aid tailored towards their specific needs.