A Christmas letter from Elizabeth

Hello,

 

My name is Elizabeth, and I’m sharing my story with you this Christmas because Wandsworth Foodbank means so much to people like me — people who’ve found themselves struggling, frightened, and unsure where to turn.

 

Before I came to the food bank, my life had completely fallen apart. I’d been through domestic abuse, my finances had been cut off, and I was terrified I might lose my rights to see my children.

 

When I finally spoke to my NHS health team about everything — the abuse, the money worries, the fear — I broke down. I couldn’t stop crying. They gave me a voucher for Wandsworth Foodbank, and that small piece of paper changed everything.

 

It was my first time ever going to a food bank, and I remember feeling so embarrassed, so low. I didn’t know what to expect.

 

But when I walked in, I saw other people like me — mums with children, people recovering from illness, ordinary people just trying to get through. No one looked down on me. Everyone was kind, gentle, and welcoming.

 

A volunteer sat with me and asked what I needed: food, toiletries, fresh fruit, even fuel vouchers. But she didn’t stop there. She asked about my situation and if I needed any other support. She listened, really listened.

 

That’s how I found the One Stop Shop, a domestic abuse advice drop-in based in the same church as the food bank. They connected me with a solicitor who is now representing my case. I can’t explain the relief I felt.

 

For the first time in so long, I wasn’t carrying everything on my own.

 

Another volunteer invited me to the women’s group at the church on Thursdays. From the moment I walked in, the warmth, the laughter, the sense of belonging reminded me that I’m not alone.

 

Some of the women there have been through similar things, and their strength has helped me find mine again. I’m no longer ashamed of what happened to me. I’m proud that I’m still standing.

 

I’m so grateful that I found Wandsworth Foodbank. The food and essentials helped me survive, but what truly changed my life was the kindness, guidance, and the doors it opened. It gave me hope when I thought I had none left.

 

That’s why I’m asking you to please support Wandsworth Foodbank’s Christmas Appeal. Your donation could open that same door for someone else who’s struggling, someone who just needs a kindness and support to help them find their way forward.

 

This winter is already one of the busiest times for Wandsworth Foodbank. More families than ever are in hardship. On average, households referred to food banks are left with just £104 a week after rent, barely enough to cover food, energy, and other essentials.

 

Please donate £25 today or whatever you can afford, to help local people find practical support and a glimmer of hope this Christmas.

 

For me, Wandsworth Foodbank wasn’t just a place that gave me food. It gave me back my dignity. It gave me hope. It gave me a community.

 

Thank you so much for helping them be there for everyone who needs them this winter, just as they were there for me.

 

With heartfelt thanks,

Elizabeth

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