Shepshed foodbank praises Co-op customers for donations to festive appeal

CENTRAL England Co-operative has said ‘thank you’ to customers and members in Leicestershire after they donated over 75,000 items in support of the Christmas Food Bank Appeal – helping to create over 30,000 meals for people in need.

The retailer hosted a special fiveweek appeal in an effort to bring a little festive cheer and provide emergency food and support to individuals and families in crisis.

Over 15,000 items a week were donated and, in total, over 75,000 were collected to provide over 30,000 meals during the festive period.

Martyn Cheatle, Central England Co-operative Chief Executive, said: “We have all been amazed by the fantastic response to our Christmas Food Bank Appeal from customers, members and colleagues in Leicestershire.

“As a co-operative, we are proud to be able to support the great work of local food banks across our trading area during the festive season and throughout the year.

“We all want to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who donated, not just to the Christmas Food Bank Appeal but our year round food bank collections.

“The generosity and support on show throughout 2018 has helped make a major difference to people from all walks of life.”

The parcels included items such as tea, sugar and cereals and other essentials such as toiletries and hygiene products to ensure people can maintain their dignity during times of crisis. They also featured festive treats ranging from chocolate to Turkish delight following a plea by food bank partners for people to spread a little ‘festive cheer’ with their donations.

Glennis Wilcox, from Shepshed Foodbank, said: “We have been amazed by the response this year, donations have far exceeded any previous years. People have donated lots of Christmas goodies but also lots of basics.

“On behalf of Shepshed Food Bank I would like to say a heartfelt thanks to all Central England Co-op customers.”