Coronavirus has affected us all. In response, there's been a huge outpouring of public generosity and volunteers are doing all they can.
But it shouldn't be left to food banks to pick up the pieces.
In the last two weeks of March, food banks in the Trussell Trust network were busier than ever, with a record 81% more emergency food parcels being given out compared to the same period last year.
Food banks in the Independant Food Aid Network (IFAN) report an average 59% increase in need from February to March. That is 17 times higher than this time last year.
the Government must do more
When the government put extra cash into Universal Credit and other schemes to try protect people from being swept into destitution it showed how quickly huge changes can be made during a national crisis.
But it won’t be enough. That is why we have teamed up with a coalition of charities, including IFAN, Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG), The Children's Society, Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), StepChange and Turn2Us.
Together we are calling on the government to introduce a Coronavirus Emergency Income Support scheme to make sure everyone is able to stay afloat during this crisis.
Help make it happen
The government needs to act fast. We need MPs from all sides to pile on the pressure – you can help by asking your MP to write to the Chancellor today.
Use our form to send your MP a message, remember to let them know why you think the government needs to do more.
If you, your family or friends are being supported by benefits during this time or if you have been volunteering at a food bank or other charity then it would be especially powerful to share that experience.