Foodstock, a foodbank located on Andersontown Road in Belfast, has reported a staggering 300% increase in referrals during the Halloween mid- term break. This surge highlights the escalating financial pressures faced by many families in the area. Led by SDLP Councillor Paul Doherty, Foodstock plans to provide 600 meals on Christmas Day to support those in need. Doherty expressed concern over the unprecedented demand, stating, "We’ve had an incredible response every year when it comes to Christmas, but this year I feel as if we’re headed into something that we’ve never encountered."