‘Poverty can happen anywhere in Manchester… it’s even living next door to huge wealth’

In South Manchester, one woman unpacks the food parcel delivered to her doorstep - this box is more than groceries; it’s a lifeline.

“Thank you so much,” she said, supporting herself on the doorframe and crutches. “That’s me cared for over the next couple of days.”

Jane* is just one of hundreds in Greater Manchester receiving vital help from the food bank charity Humans MCR this winter. As prices soar, the strain on budgets, coupled with escalating living expenses, is leaving many in the region grappling to secure enough meals to sustain themselves.

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Carlos Conde Garzon, 28, a delivery driver for Humans MCR, has witnessed time and again how many households are stretched to their limits.

“You see everyday the impacts poverty has on families and individuals. We hear comments on how people haven’t eaten in so long - it’s sad to see.”

Unlike traditional food banks, Humans MCR delivers to all their clients which helps address accessibility issues that some individuals might face, especially if they lack transportation or face mobility issues.

It becomes evident how vital this approach is during our Wythenshawe delivery. Mum of two, Emily*, greets Carlos and I at the door in the downpour of rain - she is wheelchair bound and unable to move with ease. “Thank you - I really appreciate it,” she says, her gratitude palpable. “I’m sorry for the wait - it took me a while to reach the door.”

As we climb back into the van, Carlos tells me Humans allow him to build a rapport with clients unlike other food bank charities.