'We will be there for them': Cork food bank sees surge in numbers using service

Director of Feed Cork Hamp Sirmans said more than 500,000 meals, and 9,000 food parcels, accounting for 400 tonnes of food, were provided by Feed Cork over the 52 weeks of 2023.

Feed Cork directors Hamp Sirmans and Sharon Mullins with some 'After School Fuel' dinners for children which are available at Feed Cork. Picture: Howard Crowdy

The effects of the covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and the cost-of-living crisis have seen an increase in families using the Feed Cork food bank service.

Every week, the volunteers at Feed Cork distribute over seven tonnes of food to more than 600 people in Cork City from their base located at Cork Church, Lower Oliver Plunkett Street.