Three Richmond charities have received more than £120,000 to support residents who are struggling to afford food and other essentials.

Citizens Advice Richmond, Richmond AID and RUILS have come together to deliver a co-ordinated offer of support.

They will use the funding on:

• cash and vouchers for individuals and families towards the cost of food and essential items
• an enhanced advice service to help residents manage their situation and access longer term support e.g. benefits or debt advice
• RUILS' Food and Hygiene Hub in providing supplies to people who are unable to go to the shops, are isolating or cannot afford food

In August government funding of £124,000 was awarded to Richmond Council.

Cllr Michael Wilson is spokesperson for communities, equalities and the voluntary sector at the council.

Read more: Vast scale of foodbank's mission to feed 300 Richmond residents a week

He said: "Since the start of the pandemic, the response to this crisis from local volunteer groups has been brilliant – thousands and thousands of food parcels have been delivered to people all over the borough.

"And sadly, as the furlough scheme comes to an end, we will undoubtedly see a rise in unemployment, therefore we anticipate that the demands on food and other essentials will continue throughout the winter.

"No one should go hungry because they can't afford to buy food. If you need help – get in touch now."

Richmond AID chief executive Lucy Byrne said: "As food poverty continues to increase as a result of reduction in income, unemployment, housing, benefits and debt issue this grant will make a huge difference to people impacted by covid."

Simon Lawson of Citizens Advice Richmond said: "Citizens Advice Richmond has remained open throughout the pandemic with all of our services moving online and via the phone where residents have been able to speak directly to an adviser.

"We are helping a record number of clients deal with issues and we expect this to increase further in the coming months.

"As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic people are struggling to cope with redundancy, claiming benefits, rising debts and threats of homelessness, so this new fund is going to help residents in real need."

Cathy Maker of RUILS said: "Over the last 6 months, the need for welfare boxes has grown substantially with just under 100 households receiving a weekly delivery from our Food Hub.

• Citizens Advice Richmond
• Richmond Aid
• RUILS

Households with children that are affected by the pandemic and experiencing financial hardship can apply for supermarket vouchers from the Richmond Covid-19 Hardship Fund.

The council also provides grants through the Local Assistance Scheme for residents experiencing financial hardship.

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