And the foodbank, on Civic Square in Tranent, is now preparing for even higher demand as the cost of living crisis bites, with increases in energy bills, National Insurance and council tax coming into effect at the start of the month.

Last month, 412 emergency three-day food parcels were sent out to the community, supporting a record 1,068 people, 430 of whom were children.

Equalling more than 10,000kg of stock, the foodbank said that the increase of parcels meant a significantly larger quantity of stock was being handed out compared to the volume being donated.

Low-income families and individuals accounted for 64 per cent of all referrals last month.

But the figures are believed to be just the tip of the iceberg, with unprecedented numbers of people being helped by other community food projects and community-based groups in East Lothian.

Food parcels ready to be handed out. Picture: East Lothian Foodbank

The foodbank has also noted an increase in the number of people requesting ‘quick’ or ‘no-cook’ items, as soaring energy prices make cooking more expensive.

The team are now looking at ways to include more items which are quick and easy to cook, minimising associated cooking costs.

Elaine Morrison, East Lothian Foodbank manager, told the Courier: “Hunger in Scotland isn’t just about food, it’s about people not having enough money for the basics and, as the cost of living crisis worsens, more people across the county are facing impossible decisions and unrelenting pressure.

“Many people’s finances are already stretched and there’s no way for further savings to be made.

“They’re just getting by, and any emergency pushes them over the edge.

“We are expecting to see more and more people who have never been referred to us in the past needing support.

“We are continuing to meet the growing need for our service at this difficult time and that is only possible due to the amazing support and generosity local people show in supporting our work.

“Thank you to everyone who gives their time, donates money or food and toiletries to us.”

Empty shelves at the foodbank show how demand resources are in East Lothian. Picture: East Lothian Foodbank

Previously, December 2021 was the busiest month at the foodbank, with 392 parcels handed out. An increase in referrals was also seen in January (321) and February (326) compared to the same time in 2021.

Paul McLennan, East Lothian MSP, said: “These shocking figures show two things. One: how essential the foodbank’s services are; and two: how significantly the cost of living crisis is affecting people across East Lothian.”

Mr McLennan has quoted figures about the county’s foodbank use a number of times in Scottish Parliament and said it was “devastating” each time the figures rose.

He added: “Elaine’s phrase captured this perfectly: unrelenting pressure.

“People are contacting my office in despair about how they will get what they need to survive over the coming months, as incomes are no longer enough to cover food and the means to prepare and cook it.

“This is about compassion.

“The amazing volunteers and staff at the foodbank have compassion in spades, but every day that that compassion isn’t matched by those who manage the levers of our economy, then the system tips closer breaking point.”

Mr McLennan praised foodbank workers for their “incredible kindness” and “the people of East Lothian for their kindness and donations” but said that something had to change.

'Increase is shocking'

The Rev Liz O’Ryan, chairperson of East Lothian Foodbank Trustees, added: “I am very aware the current cost of living crisis is affecting the ordinary folk in our communities. The 104 per cent increase in referrals is shocking.

“My heart goes out to those struggling to make ends – having to choose, literally, between eating, heating or buying the essentials.

“It is a national scandal that in such a wealthy country, this situation not only exists but is getting worse month on month. Surely more can be done to ease the spiral into poverty which so many face.

“I pray for a time when our foodbank is not needed by anyone because all are fed and nurtured.”

For information about items most needed by the foodbank, visit eastlothian.foodbank.org.uk

For support, contact the foodbank at info@eastlothian.foodbank.org.uk or on 07516 510617.