Heartbreaking reason mums have started leaving food outside their homes

Heartbreaking reason mums have started leaving food outside their homesFamilies on some estates, including those in Tower Hamlets, east London, have decided to pop food items outside rather than in fridges — but temperatures are set to rocketCommentsNewsBradley Jolly Overnight News Editor02:56, 08 Apr 2026View 4 ImagesSamantha Gager has revealed the harsh reality of life for parents in her area(Image: Jam Press)Hard-up families on estates in one of London's most deprived boroughs are now leaving food outside on balconies — because they cannot afford to use fridges.‌The cost of living remains a challenge for households across the UK, an issue exasperated by the conflict in the Middle East. Food prices could surge by 10% this year, even if the war is resolved soon, industry chiefs have warned.‌The situation is so bleak that families with children are now particularly worried. Some families in Tower Hamlets, east London, for example, are struggling to afford basic appliances or the cost of running them, such as fridges.‌Mum-of-two Samantha Gager, who lives in the borough, said: "One of the main issues is affording fridges or keeping food and medications cool. Some families rely heavily on specific foods that must be stored safely, and when appliances break or energy costs rise, it creates real anxiety. I know families who are worried about running fridges continuously and have to leave food on the balcony to keep it cold."READ MORE: Oil prices make staggering plunge and stock futures surge after Donald Trump's ceasefireREAD MORE: 'We quit our jobs to live in a motorhome with our kids and travel the country'4View 4 ImagesSamantha said ‘families can’t afford to run fridges'(Image: Jam Press)4View 4 ImagesPictured with partner John, Samantha offers advice to families (Image: Jam Press)‌Samantha, 50, says that families are now buying smaller quantities, planning meals meticulously, and doing everything they can to avoid waste. She added:...