The Trussell Trust found that more than 67,000 three-day emergency food supplies were handed out in July and August last year.
That's risen by more than 4,000 compared with the same period in 2015.
James Milton, operations manager at The Trussell Trust told Premier the importance of the Church in helping those that are in need of food.
Speaking about the Church he said: "They are the foundation of so much that we do. The foodbank network across the UK is faith inspired - its Church based.
"Without that response there would be an awful lot of people in this country that would be going hungry or worse."
The Trussell Trust, which runs more than 420 food banks, said its study showed how close to crisis many families are living.
School holidays can put financial pressure on parents who usually rely on free school meals for their children. As a result, the charity has said it will offer extra help to families this summer, with additional services including a holiday club.
The new research also shows that the number of people using food banks over the summer holidays is rising too.
There's growing concern for those who struggle to provide the most basic of needs.
Calling for more support for struggling families, Milton said: "There's always more that government can do and we are really grateful for improving relationships with government - the ability to talk to them about what should change and could change.
"Particularly where there are delays or problems in the benefit system which means that someone who is entitled to support isn't getting it or isn't getting it soon enough."
Bishop of Truro, Rt Rev Tim Thornton said the figures were "shocking".
He added: "That so many primary age children are going without food in our country is of great concern.
"It is good that so many voluntary organisations, the vast majority of which are based on churches, are working to provide help for families during the summer holidays.
A government spokesman said: "Record numbers of people are now in work and we're helping millions of households meet the everyday cost of living and keep more of what they earn.
"We've doubled free childcare to help parents into work, and continue to spend over £90 billion a year on support for those who need it, including those who are bringing up a family or on a low income."
