A NEWPORT church is producing around 800 food parcels a month for needy people across South Wales.

The Kings Church's Jesus Cares scheme began 18 months ago helping out families in Duffryn but now volunteers are packing between 200 and 300 boxes a week for people in Newport, Swansea, Cardiff, Torfaen and Merthyr Tydfil.

Co-ordinator Faye Edwards says that with the economic crisis there is an increasing need for the food parcels, with reports of families unable to feed themselves coming back to the group.

The group is now looking for a local business to help them out with transportation and members of the public who may be able to donate brand new toys for Christmas.

Dave Edwards of the church said reports that the church recieved back from agencies were "shocking".

"There was one lady who said thank you for the help because I have had to starve for two days," he said.

Mrs Edwards said: "It's actually very humbling. I'm regularly in tears because I can't believe this is on my doorstep.

"Mrs Edwards said the service started after Duffryn Community Link worker Bob Barry contacted the church for help, saying he was aware of families that didn't have any food to eat.

Since then the Lower Dock Street-based church has extended its hand to help a variety of agencies, including Women's Aid, Barnardos, the Welsh Refugee Council and the Red Cross.

Parcels are distributed to them who then pass them out to the clients.

Receipts span people who are unemployed, employed but can't make ends meet, families with children, the homeless, refugees and others.

If you can help email jesuscares@kings-church.org.uk or call 01633 244453.