Final answer:
The linking word 'However' appropriately introduces a contrasting statement following the report of the high number of food parcels given out, contrasting with the subsequent decrease in child poverty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The appropriate linking word to start the next paragraph, given the context provided, would be "However". This word is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously. The previous paragraph talks about the high number of food parcels handed out indicating a level of food insecurity, while the next paragraph shifts to a more positive note about the decline in child poverty. Thus, "However" would appropriately signal the contrast between the two statements.