The local food bank is increasing its hours to help it meet ever-increasing demand.

Community Link food bank coordinator Yvonne Walker said use of the service had increased by 56 percent over the course of the winter.

“To continue to meet the demand we’ve increased the hours of the food bank on a Friday and are now open from 9am to 3pm just so we can help the growing number of families each week who come to the community hub for help,” Yvonne said.

More than 1,300 people have accessed the food bank so far this year.

“These are people that are teaching your children, that are caring for your parents, that are in the construction industry,” Community Link manager Kate Murray said.

“These are families with two parents working and earning decent incomes that are struggling to get by, and even with the increased hours we are scratching the surface of the need.”

With the high cost of living in Wānaka, a lack of affordable housing, increasing rental rates and property prices, Community Link does not see any sign of demand for the food bank decreasing, Kate said.

The increase in demand is also putting pressure on the existing food bank premises. 

If demand continues Community Link may need to look at expanding its operation further and expanding its storage facility, Kate said.

Kate said the food bank’s fridge and shelves are filled with grocery items, produce and meals which are generously donated by local residents, community gardens and community groups.

Registered charities Food for Love and KiwiHarvest also help keep the food bank’s shelves stocked.

The Community Link Food Bank is located at the Wānaka Community Hub, 34 McDougall Street.

To receive a food parcel, contact the Community Link team or drop in to the hub.

The food bank hours are: Monday 1pm-4pm; Tuesday 8am-9am and 5pm-6pm; Wednesday 10am-2pm; and Friday 9am-3pm.

PHOTO: Supplied