As the cost of living continues to affect families across the region, a long-standing Salvation Army foodbank collection in the North East has marked its most successful year yet all to help struggling families this winter.

The foodbanks in the Egglescliffe and the surrounding area has created a new initiative to extend its reach and increasing donations to the two locations. 

The collection, organised annually by the Egglescliffe Area Residents' Association (EARA), supports the Salvation Army in Stockton, providing vital food parcels for vulnerable families during the Christmas period.

This year’s appeal, held on November 14, not only continued its tradition at Egglescliffe Parish Hall but also expanded to a second hub at Eaglescliffe Methodist Church on Witham Avenue.

The additional venue aimed to help a broader section of the community, making it easier for residents in the northern part of the ward to contribute.

The decision paid off, with both venues receiving significant contributions.

Ward Councillor Stefan Houghton, who represents the Eaglescliffe East area, led the initiative to introduce the second collection hub.

Cllr Stefan Houghton and Peter DoddCllr Stefan Houghton and Peter Dodd (Image: Cllr Stefan Houghton) He said: “The annual foodbank collection organized by EARA is a great endeavour that always does well thanks to the generosity of local businesses and residents.

"However, I wanted to boost the appeal this year by making it easier for more of my residents to take part.

"More participation means more families who are struggling being helped this Christmas. I'm very grateful to the Eaglescliffe Methodist Church for their support."

Cllr Stefan Houghton, Tim Stokeld, Sandy Davis, Shane Sellers and Major Ian Davis at The Salvation Army in StocktonCllr Stefan Houghton, Tim Stokeld, Sandy Davis, Shane Sellers and Major Ian Davis at The Salvation Army in Stockton (Image: Cllr Stefan Houghton) EARA Chair Shane Sellers, said: “The latest foodbank appeal on November14 was the best we've done yet.

"Through the new partnership with the Eaglescliffe Methodist Church on Witham Avenue, which Stefan arranged, more residents have been able to take part.

"We have also established new relationships with local businesses and schools which is also helping the appeal to grow. Thought is now going into what we can do next year to make more progress.”

The foodbank collection asked for donations of non-perishable food products, such as tins and dried goods, as well as toiletries and health products.

Food bank stall set up to help multiple families over winterFood bank stall set up to help multiple families over winter (Image: Cllr Stefan Houghton) Contributions came from residents and local businesses, including Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Bestways', ensuring a wide array of essential items for those in need.

With the Salvation Army and other organizations witnessing increasing demand, events like these highlight the importance of local efforts in addressing food insecurity.

As the Christmas season approaches, the organisers hope to inspire even more residents to join in future appeals to ensure no family goes without during these challenging times.