A mother-of-four who once had just €2 to her name when seeking help from a foodbank is now giving back by volunteering at the service, which has seen a surge in demand from working-class families, reports Breaking News.
Sinead McEvoy first turned to the Trim Resource Centre Foodbank in Co. Meath nine years ago, moving into rented accommodation at Christmas with only a bag of donated food to feed her children.
“I had nothing but €2 to my name. It was all overwhelming. But the hardest part was asking for help,” she said. “I felt embarrassed,” reports Breaking News.
“I thought I had failed my children, but the Foodbank was amazing. It was Christmas, and I borrowed money from a friend to buy them a hamster for the holiday,” reports Breaking News.
Now financially stable, Sinead volunteers regularly at the foodbank alongside her children, earning a reputation for her creativity in turning donations into meals.
She has been nicknamed “MacGyver” for her resourcefulness, turning 1,400 donated yoghurts from Danone into doughnuts, cheesecakes, and other treats, while a large donation of beetroot became soups, salads, hummus, and crisps, reports Breaking News.
Foodbank manager Elaine Casey said the need is growing, with 107 families currently relying on the service in South Meath. “Life can change so quickly due to unexpected bills or job losses,” she said.
“Coming into Christmas is particularly hard for working-class families who must choose between heating, food, or medication, reports Breaking News.
Unfortunately, this year’s budget didn’t help people in food poverty.”
Elaine highlighted the foodbank’s confidential and dignified approach, with separate entry and exit times so clients don’t have to encounter people they know.
“There is no shame in asking for help. Everyone deserves kindness and support when they need it most. Many people go days without eating to ensure their children are fed,” she said, reports Breaking News.
The Trim Resource Centre Foodbank can be reached at 046 9438850, and a Christmas collection will take place this weekend at Navan Town Centre.
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