Central England Co-op has launched an Easter appeal in a bid to boost stocks of food banks in its communities as the cost-of-living crises raise the demand for their services.
The symbol group retailer has collection points in over 200 of its food stores where customers can donate everyday items to support local food banks.
The most requested items include UHT Milk, long-life juice, pasta sauce, sponge puddings, tinned fruit and vegetables, tinned meat and fish, rice pudding, washing up liquid and toiletries including deodorant and toothpaste.
“We had an amazing response to our Christmas Food Bank Appeal and we know, after speaking to our food bank partners, that sadly the demand is only growing,” Central England Store Manager Brad Tuckfield said.
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“While the majority of our food stores have food bank collection points in place all year round, we feel that it is vital to shine a light on the times of year when services are strained and are in need of boost.
“Easter, just like summer and Christmas, is one of these times and this is why everyone involved at Central England Co-op is asking members and customers to dig deep and help support some great and vital local good causes who are providing a lifeline to people in need in your community.”
Sherwood Forest Food Bank’s Keith Hadfield added: “It’s unfortunate, due to the current financial situation, that the demand upon our service is increasing constantly, yet our stock levels are diminishing.
“Last weekend we had to buy over £1,000 of food in order to top our supplies. It’s clear that isn’t a way to operate long term, but the fact is that the incoming donations are nowhere near enough to cover our demands.”
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