The spiralling cost of food and high energy bills are a major cause for concern among parents struggling to feed their children in this region. That's according to Madeline Uí Mhealóid; the Cavan, Monaghan and Meath representative for St Vincent de Paul.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Ms Uí Mhealóid - who was responding to this morning's report by Barnardos showing that 7 in 10 parents are worried about being able to provide basics like food, heat and electricity for their family - said those concerns are being exacerbated by the rising cost of food.
She highlighted how many parents are now going without, so their children can be provided with the food that is available in the family home. Ms Uí Mhealóid added, that such are the demands on SVP services now, new younger members are needed to ensure that everyone's needs are met by the organisation.
"We would appeal to people to come and help because it's a time of great need. SVP can be a great source of comfort if you can bring help to somebody, help them to feel better, and help them to manage their family situation better," she said.
