Flintshire Foodbank is seeing an increased demand for services and only expects it to become greater this winter. 

With the cost of living crisis causing a significant impact on food prices, bills, and inflation, many residents are being forced to choose between food or fuel. 

The foodbank has seen a 22 percent increase during October of this year, in comparison to the last two years, which now leaves them in a position with more food going out than what is coming in. 

In an attempt to combat that, the team at the foodbank is preparing for the busy festive period. 

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Stacey Adams, marketing and fundraising at Flintshire Foodbank said: "The cost of living crisis has led to more people than ever needing to use Flintshire Foodbank.

"During October this year, we have seen a 22% increase compared to the last two years. We can only see this number increasing as the weather gets colder.

"Currently, people in our community are choosing between heating their homes and eating, which is not a decision anyone should have to make.

"We are very grateful that Toyota Manufacturing is sponsoring our Christmas bags this year, so we can provide extra items to people who are desperate to give their families a happy Christmas.

"We are giving out more food than we are receiving at the moment, which has left us really short of some essential items."

As a result of the shortage, the foodbank has launched its reverse Christmas Advent Calendar, in which you can collect items per day, before donating them to the foodbank. 

The Leader: The advent calendar scheme. The advent calendar scheme. (Image: Flintshire foodbank)

They are also taking part in the national Food Drive at Tesco, Mold from December 1 to December 3.

Stacey added: "This is a great opportunity for anyone that would like to donate, as we will be handing out shopping lists of our most needed items that you can donate whilst you are shopping. 

"If anyone is experiencing a crisis, we can provide an emergency food parcel. You need to request a voucher from one of our referral agencies, such as Flintshire Single Point of Access (SPOA) on 03000 858 858. Once you have a voucher you can visit one of our nine distribution centers which are listed on our Facebook page and website."