Help with food and food costs

Food costs are increasing alongside other rising costs. This is having an impact on a lot of people and families. If you can't afford to buy or cook food for yourself help is available.

Below are local services, charities and community groups who can help. There are also low-cost options to help make your money go further when buying food.

Crisis food support

If you have no money and are unable to buy food, there are several crisis food providers in your area. Some of the providers, such as Sunderland Foodbank, can accept self -referrals. Other providers prefer organisations who are working with people to make the referrals on their behalf. Organisations include social landlords (such as Gentoo), welfare rights advice providers, and some NHS services.

The council may also be able to refer you if you are in financial crisis and have no food

Food support in the Coalfields area - Copt Hill, Hetton, Houghton, Shiney Row.

Food support in the East area - Doxford, Hendon, Millfield, Ryhope, St Michael's.

Food support in the North area - Castle, Fulwell, Redhill, Southwick, St Peter's.

Food support in the Washington area - Washington Central, Washington East, Washington North, Washington South, Washington West.

Food support in the West area - Barnes, Pallion, Sandhill, Silksworth, St Anne's, St Chad's.

The Company Shop provides free membership and quality food at substantial discounts for people working in food manufacturing and distribution, the NHS, care, police, fire, and for those on means tested benefits. The nearest shop is in Washington.

The Bread and Butter Thing offers weekly groceries at a fraction of high street prices. Their mobile food clubs help people to save money on their food shop and helps prevent food from being wasted.

Prices range from £5 for an individual bag to £17 for a large family. Whichever offer you opt for, you will be saving on your normal weekly food bill. Bags can include fresh fruit and veg, chilled food and cupboard staples such as pasta and cereal. You can also use your Healthy Start vouchers. There are various hubs across Sunderland, find your nearest one and sign up here.

Too Good To Go helps stop good food from going to waste, offering great value for money at local stores, cafes and restaurants.

Free School Meals, Healthy Start and Childcare Support

For information on free school meals, Healthy Start vouchers and government support with childcare costs, click on the links below:

The links below are to organisations that may also be able to provide help and support with food, including details of local community stores /community pantries: