For the first time since opening, Deal’s food bank is running out of donations.

The charity is in desperate need of support from the public to help fill empty shelves at its warehouse.

There are more than 70 vouchers being redeemed each month as people in the community go through financial difficulties.

Food bank co-ordinator Sheila Ward said: “That means food going to over 200 people per month with about 40% being under 16.

“However our donations are about 20% down over the last four months.”

The food bank works with Citizens Advice Bureau, Bechange, School Liaison Officers and housing support organisations to help people out of hardship.

“I’m always lifted by the generosity so freely given to help and support those having difficulties and I’m certain that will continue." - Rev Seyan Tills.

Mrs Ward, who has been with the food bank since it started in 2012, said: “We’ve just taken part in the nationwide Tesco and Trussell three-day store collection and shoppers have been truly supportive, with Tesco uplifting donations by 30%. We have a good addition to our stocks but they will be quickly used.

“Our thanks goes to the 30-plus volunteers who gave their time, to shoppers who donated food through buying extra items as they shopped, and to Tesco who facilitated the event.”

There are donation bins at Sainsbury’s, Co-op, community facilities, schools and churches across the area.

The Rev Seyan Tills, a food bank trustee, said: “I’m always lifted by the generosity so freely given to help and support those having difficulties and I’m certain that will continue.

“We are not yet at danger levels but with the long school holiday coming up that means increased costs to families and the loss of school meals. We need to ensure we have supplies to meet needs.

“Our request is help us build our stock levels back. Whatever you can do means so much to the person or family exchanging food bank vouchers for food.”

The food bank has more than 80 volunteers, 43 voucher holding organisations and has donation bins at more than 40 sites.

Information on voucher holders, food outlets, donation sites and the most needed food items are available on the website. Visit www.dealarea.foodbank.org.uk