Food costs are rising. If you are struggling to afford food there is help and advice available to you.
Check if you are eligible for help
Contact Citizens Advice New Forest – 0808 278 7860 if you’re struggling to afford enough food to discuss options which could include a referral to one of the following food banks in New Forest:
There are 11 weekly FareShare food larders across the New Forest. Free membership and a small fee, for up to 25 items of food. Details of the locations are available via this link Citizens Advice New Forest
There are 2 community fridges located in Ringwood and Fordingbridge. These don’t need a referral and are free Community Fridges
The Food Rescue Kitchen is based at New Forest Basics Bank in Lymington and redistributes excess food to those who need it. No referral is required.
If you’re at least 10 weeks pregnant or have a child under four years old, you might be able to get free vitamins and a Healthy Start card for milk, fruit and vegetables and infant formula milk.
If you or your child receive certain benefits, you can apply to the Council for free school meals from Year 3 and above.
Check if your child is eligible for free holiday provision through the Holiday Activities and Food Programme running in the summer and Christmas holidays.