The Journal is following the efforts of a small group of volunteers who are thinking big to make a difference with a £1 million grant from the National Lottery.

This week we look at how Leigh Neighbours Project is supporting foodbanks in the area.

FOODBANKS have become an important lifeline for people in crisis.

Thousands of food parcels have been handed out by Atherton and Leigh foodbank this year and the Leigh Neighbours Project has donated £500 to the cause.

Lisa Brew, joint chairman of the Leigh Neighbours Project Board, visited the foodbank at Kingsleigh Methodist Church in Leigh to meet some of the volunteers who pack the food hampers and host the collections.

She said: “Leigh Neighbours is supporting the foodbank because we recognise the role it plays in supporting people in crisis.

“We’re delighted to be able to give that little bit extra, especially at this time of year when household budgets are stretched even further, creating more pressure on vulnerable people and families.”

There are several ways people can get involved including organising fundraising events, volunteering at the foodbank or donating long-life kitchen cupboard essentials.

Warren Done, project manager of the foodbank, said: “We rely on the charity and goodwill of donors and volunteers who do a great job in bringing the community together.

“We meet many people from all walks of life who find themselves unable to make ends meet. Foodbanks make a vital difference to people and families who are really struggling.

“In the past 12 months, we’ve seen a sharp rise in the number of people in crisis being referred to our charity from a range of services and organisations and sadly it’s a trend which is likely to continue. So I urge people to donate a little of their time or money and get involved in a charity which can make a huge difference.”

Leigh Neighbours is a community project supported by the Big Local, a lottery-funded trust which is investing £200 million in areas of deprivation.