Almost 14 million people in the United Kingdom live in poverty, a fifth of the entire population. According to the United Nations a further 1.5 million are unable to afford basic essentials, meaning the need for foodbanks in the UK is becoming ever more important.
Sunderland is one of the many regions in the country who are experiencing a rising demand for foodbanks.
Sam Blacklock travelled to Wearside to find out more.
Teesside University Sports Journalism Graduate – now working in Digital Media Communications