STRUGGLING families in Chard may not be able to rely on a food bank this winter unless the charity receives bumper donations during the harvest.

The Lord’s Larder, set up by Chard Churches Together, provides emergency food supplies to people in need, but chairman John White said there has been high demand for food alongside “a noticeable”

drop in donations.

He said: “The people of Chard and nearby have been fantastic in their giving, but they, too, have suffered during the period of austerity our country has been through.

“The shortfall so far has been met month on month from our funds.

“As we move into harvest season we hope and pray that the good people who have so graciously supported us in the past continue to do so, for what we receive during this period is critical to the future of the Lord’s Larder.”

The Lord’s Larder, at the Forefront Community Centre in Fore Street, receives food from nine churches, schools and community groups.

People are referred from various agencies and volunteers from each church keep the centre going five days a week.

The group, one of the chosen charities of Chard Mayor Jenny Kenton, is run by volunteers, but resources are being stretched as more families approach them for help.

This year, based on projected figures, the group expects to hand out 648 bags of food to families – a figure which has trebled over three years.

John believes problems with the benefits system are causing more people to seek help.