A foodbank in Chorlton which supports women who have fled gender-based violence is appealing for donations of Easter eggs to give to families.

Emmeline’s Pantry has been open for nearly 17 years and is run by CEO Karen Wilson and a group of volunteers.

Karen said: “Children are going to school, and they’re seeing people get Christmas presents, seeing people celebrating Eid.

“They’re seeing people, even Pancake Day, things like that- we do it all.

“We try to make sure we give the best service possible to all our service users so that includes celebrations- it has to.”

She estimates approximately 80% of service users are women that fled gender-based violence.

Refuge found in 2022 that 75% of survivors of abuse had to use foodbanks for essentials because of the cost of living crisis.

They also provide a service for men who are primary carers for children, or whose wives or partners are housebound.

Emmeline’s Pantry offers different types of services for users each week including a food pantry and delivery service.

Karen said: “What we noticed was some of our women had been with us for four or five years.

“Their circumstances just don’t improve- it’s really difficult.”

Emmeline’s pantry provides people points to spend on their food like money, rather than bagging up food prior to people’s arrival.

Karen said: “I’ve never wanted the idea of someone getting a bag and going away with a bag- because it’s so disheartening.

“I wouldn’t want to go to Asda and be given a bag of what I had to have.”

Before taking early retirement, Karen worked for Sure Start.

“I retired to have rest and relaxation, early retirement- it didn’t work out that way!

“Community Development is in my bones.”

Emmeline’s Pantry’s Easter appeal is live and the last day to drop off donations is Monday March 30, so that they can be distributed with Easter food parcels next week.

You can find out more or how to donate on their Facebook or website.