Rising demand has prompted the opening of a new food bank in the west of the island.
The Society of St Vincent de Paul Jersey opened a second food bank location at St Peter’s Church this week after seeing increased need at its original bank at St Thomas Hall in St Helier.
The new western facility is open to the public every Friday from 13:00 to 14:00. Islanders can also pre-order food and hygiene supplies online.
The Society of St Vincent de Paul Jersey president Sinéad Wright is encouraging islanders in need of assistance to make use of the service, which is not means-tested.
She said: “It has become clear that although a valuable service, its outreach is limited to those who have transport into town or live in the St Helier vicinity.
“Our objective in setting up the western food bank is to extend the services and support we can offer to more islanders for now starting with the western parishes with our new base at St Peter’s Parish Church.
“In due course it may be possible to offer help in other parishes across the island.”
She added: “From our experience and those who speak to us about the poverty which exists throughout the island, we expect that this new service will be of great benefit to many islanders, including families which need extra support with mother and baby items like nappies and baby formula.”
Service users must be a registered client with the church before receiving any donations.