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Brandenburg’s food banks buckle under 30% surge in demand since 2020

A perfect storm of rising costs and shrinking donations leaves Brandenburg’s food banks struggling. Who’s bearing the brunt of this growing crisis?

In this image there is a super market, in that super market there are groceries.
In this image there is a super market, in that super market there are groceries.

Increasing demand at food banks in Brandenburg - Brandenburg’s food banks buckle under 30% surge in demand since 2020

Food banks across Brandenburg are facing unprecedented pressure as demand for aid continues to climb. Between 2020 and 2023, the number of people seeking assistance rose by roughly 30%, with urban areas like Potsdam, Cottbus, and Frankfurt (Oder) seeing the sharpest increases. The strain has left many providers struggling to keep up with growing needs.

The surge in demand has been most noticeable among pensioners and refugees. These groups now form a significant portion of those relying on food aid in the region. Meanwhile, donations have dropped, and operational costs—such as storage, transport, and staffing—have risen steadily.

With fewer donations and higher costs, food banks in Brandenburg are operating under severe constraints. The 30% rise in demand over three years highlights the growing reliance on aid, particularly in urban centres. Without additional support, providers may struggle to meet the needs of vulnerable groups in the coming months.

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