HOUSING staff have donated hundreds of tins of groceries to the region’s food banks to support those in need over Christmas.

The 700-strong workforce at social landlord Karbon Homes collected 961 items. including tinned foods, pasta, rice, jars, cereal, toiletries and nappies.

The company added to the total by donating a £700 gift card for those most in need.

Donations were divided between food banks in Stanley, Chester-le-Street, Newcastle, Hexham and Morpeth.

Karbon Homes’ group Chief Executive Paul Fiddaman, helped deliver some of the donations to Durham Food Bank.

He said: “We have seen a sharp increase in demand from our residents accessing the region’s food banks and there is evidence to suggest that the rollout of full service Universal Credit in some of our communities is the reason for this impact.

“Food banks are a source of emergency food supplies and unfortunately, demand increases at this time of year.

“I hope our contribution will help those families in need during this difficult time.”