AN INITIATIVE launched yesterday (Saturday December 14) means it is easier than ever to support a busy foodbank.

The hectic festive season and busy working lives mean many wanting to donate to foodbanks may struggle to find the time to do so.

With this in mind, Darlington Credit Union has set up an account where supporters can deposit funds that will go directly to supporting the Food Store at the town’s King’s Church.

The account was the idea of Darlington council leader Bill Dixon, who said: “Like a lot of people, I desperately wanted to give to the foodbank but it is not always easy to get there, especially if people are busy or working – I have bags sat in the hallway and no time to drop them off.

“I thought it would be easier if we could just give money. It’s a good idea on two levels as it makes it easier to donate and it means the foodbank can use the money to buy whatever they need.

“It’s so important to support the foodbanks as it is absolutely horrific what some families are facing at this time of year.”

Tony Brockley, of Darlington Credit Union, added: “People would like to support the foodbank but find it very difficult to get out and buy the food and drop it off.

“This way, they can just put some money into the account either at our office or online and the foodbank is that they can buy exactly what they need - rather than get duplicate donations, they can create balanced bags of food.”

For more details on donating funds to the foodbank’s account, contact Darlington Credit Union on 01325 520005.