THIEVES have resorted to stealing food parcels from a supermarket made up of kind donations from shoppers. 

Bosses at the Morrisons store, in Northwick Road, Canvey, have revealed a number of bags made up of donated items allocated for foodbanks have been snatched from the front of the shop over the last week.

The bags, which range in value from 99p to £7, were due to be distributed to four food banks on the island in the coming weeks. 

But several have now been stolen, with bosses believing the culprits are likely to be desperate people afraid to ask for support. 

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Alan Browne, community champion at the store, said: “I know things are getting bad for everyone at the moment, but I would rather people approached me or someone else at the store if they want a helping hand with food.

“Confidentiality is assured, and we can put people in touch with some of the food banks on the island.

“It is frustrating people resort to stealing, and I know no-one should go without food in this day and age, but please just ask for help.”

The idea of the bags is that customers pick up one, add some shopping to it, and after purchasing the items, then leave it on the foodbank cage for donation.

One of the food banks Morrisons support is Bobby’s Big Heart, which help families struggling including with food.

Founder Yolanda Crabb admits she was saddened to hear of the theft of the food parcels. 

She said: “Unfortunately, this is what it has come to for so many people struggling to get by and provide food for themselves and their children.

“But we rely solely on food bags to help families in genuine need.

“We have seen our families double in the last few weeks needing food parcels from us just so they can eat.

“So, it is heartbreaking when the bags are being stolen.”

She added: “I cannot bare the thought of someone being hungry, especially children, but rather than resort to stealing all they need to do is ask.

“We, like many others, are non-judgemental, and as long as they are honest with us, we will help.”