Manchester Jews are rallying around a Lubavitch food bank after the theft of all its toys and games so that deprived children do not lose out.

L’chaim in Salford’s Upper Park Road has distributed toys and games to around 400 children from struggling households during the school holidays.

The remaining stock, intended to help an additional 160 children, was stolen in a break-in.

A spokesperson for the food bank told the JC on Monday that “thanks to many people who have come forward, we have already managed to restock 50 per cent of what was stolen and have already distributed it so children can make use of them immediately.

“We are still hoping to be able to restock the remaining 50 per cent and distribute them as soon as possible.”

The spokesperson added that cost of living crisis had increased demand for support “to what it was at the peak of Covid. But now it is harder to come by funds and surplus food stock. It is a real struggle.”

Food bank co-director Dubby Klyne told the JC: "Having to call children to cancel their pick-up slot for their summer gifts of toys and games - and hear how broken they were - has strengthened our resolve to do even more to make up for these children whose peers are enjoying holidays and fun family trips."

L’Chaim has provided Greater Manchester police with CCTV footage of the break-in, including vehicle number-plates.

Donations can be made at www.lchaimfoodbank.co.uk