Dickson Lauds the Tireless Work of Carrickfergus Foodbank

On Friday 1st December, East Antrim Alliance MLA, Stewart Dickson, joined Carrick Foodbank volunteers and Tesco staff to support their annual Fundraising Day at the Carrick store.

Stewart Dickson said: “I am delighted to support the tenth year of the Neighbourhood Food Collection campaign. The partnership between Tesco, the Carrickfergus Foodbank, the Trussell Trust and Fareshare has helped provide millions of meals to people in need. The work of the volunteers, Tesco staff, and the wonderful charity of customers, is very heartening at this time of year.

“I am a great supporter of the Trussell Trust, which provides support and three days’ emergency food to more than 1.1 million people, including 400,000 children.

“Such emergency support is even more crucial as the mean-spirited Tory cuts begin to hurt the most vulnerable and the welfare system is reformed, leaving many with periods of time with no income. We as a society need to show compassion, consideration and flexibility when benefit claims are being assessed in the first place.

“Our welfare state is slowly but surely being pulled apart by cuts, mismanagement and ‘reform’ which are undermining its very principles of universal coverage and social security from cradle to grave. I see this every day, as more and more people who are in food crisis are coming to my Office for assistance.

“That said, I was delighted to observe Tesco customers giving so generously, and to discuss the issues with Carrickfergus Foodbank volunteers Jill McIlreany and Pam Mewa. Just where would society be without those who are willing to give so freely of their time to assist those who are in need?

“Should anyone have a genuine need for the services of the Carrickfergus Foodbank they can access the service through my Constituency Office on 028 9335 0286.”