Food Bank Charities To Support Now

The coronavirus pandemic has put immense pressure on food banks across the UK. Many have been forced to close, while others are struggling to meet the soaring demand in users as more people are finding themselves without work. This sudden increase in use is combined with a significant decrease in the number of volunteers as well as a shortage of donations. In short: food bank charities need our support now more than ever. Here’s how you can help.

City Harvest

West London-based food redistribution charity City Harvest has reported seeing a significant influx in food donations as a result of the coronavirus crisis, with many of London’s restaurants donating surplus stock including Hawksmoor, Sushisamba, Bone Daddies and Nando’s. But to keep their mission going, City Harvest needs ongoing help. You can donate money online, or get involved with the charity’s Virtual Food Box initiative. cityharvest.org.uk

Sufra NW London

Established in 2013, Sufra NW London is based on St. Raphael’s Estate, Brent’s most disadvantaged neighbourhood. It’s a lifeline for the vulnerable, homeless and socially isolated, providing food as well as a range of services, such as a Community Kitchen each Friday night – which is currently operating as takeaway-only due to the coronavirus pandemic. It couldn’t be easier to donate food: just pick from Sufra’s shopping list, order items online and use their address for delivery at the checkout. Alternatively, donate money here to help the Sufra team purchase food items when stock is low. Every £10 given will provide an emergency food parcel for someone in need, while £50 will feed and support a family of four. sufra-nwlondon.org.uk

The Trussell Trust

The Trussell Trust has over 1,200 food bank centres across the UK – around two thirds of the country’s total amount. Over 90 per cent of food distributed is given by the public, so donations are imperative. Recommended foods include: cereal, soup, pasta, rice, tinned tomatoes, tea, coffee, biscuits and fruit juice, as well as non-food items such as toiletries and hygiene products. You can donate directly to food banks, or via collection points in supermarkets – find your local food bank here. trusseltrust.org

Independent Food Aid Network

Since being launched in 2016 by a group of 40, the Independent Food Aid Network has grown significantly, now representing hundreds of independent food aid providers operating across the UK. Donate here to help support IFAN’s member organisations as they tackle the challenges of the coronavirus outbreak. foodaidnetwork.org.uk

FareShare

The UK’s longest running food redistribution charity, FareShare was born out of the belief that no food should go to waste – especially when people are going hungry. Their mission is simple: to take good quality surplus food and redistribute it to 11,000 frontline charities and community groups, creating almost a million meals for vulnerable people. fareshare.org.uk

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