Recent figures have shown that Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance member food banks have seen a large increase in request for support this October. Figures have shown that requests in October 2022 were the highest they have been since the peak of COVID-19. October’s requests of support were 50% higher than requests in April 2022.

The Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA) was created in March 2020 as a way to help those who were struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. The alliance is part of the Community Hub, which is made up of several Derby based businesses and organisations including Community Action Derby and Derby City Council. Whilst DF4TA was initially a short-term project, it has evolved into a long-term solution to helping those in need in Derby. Food 4 Thought Alliance currently partners with 14 food banks across Derby.

Whilst the increase during November and early December of donations are welcomed, we are encouraging both residents of Derby and local businesses in Derby to continue to donate. Food 4 Thought would struggle to operate without the generous food and monetary donations from individuals and businesses. This last 6 weeks has seen more donations and offer of support than the last 6 months combined. With the current cost-of-living crisis and the winter months now here, some people may be struggling to afford food alongside other household bills. By donating to Food 4 Thought, you are helping to support local people in Derby communities.  

Councillor Matthew Eyre, Cabinet Member for Community Development, Place and Tourism, said:

Our partnership with Community Action Derby has become extremely significant in offering support and advice to those in need during this cost-of-living crisis. The increase in donations to the Food 4 Thought Alliance this past October will make a noticeable difference to local Derby resident’s lives.

However, it is important that we continue to donate if we can. Without the generosity of local people and businesses in Derby, The Food 4 Thought Alliance cannot continue to help those in need. We encourage those who can, to get in touch, and donate what they can to help support local people at this difficult time.

I want to say a huge thank you to all those who have donated so far, and to all those who will donate over the coming weeks and months.”

Paul Brookhouse, Project Manager of DF4TA said:

It is vital during the winter months and higher costs people are facing that we make sure anyone who can’t afford to eat or heat their homes gets in touch.  We need the current level of donations to continue into the new year so that no-one freezes or starves this winter.”

To learn more about the Food 4 Thought Alliance, visit their webpage. Food 4 Thought can also provide a range of support, including food packages, to those in need of assistance. To speak to Food 4 Thought about support, call 01332 346266. If you are interested in donating or would like to volunteer to help Food 4 Thought, email df4ta@communityactionderby.org.uk

Derby City Council and Community Action Derby have recently partnered to create a cost-of-living support webpage. On this webpage you can find useful tips, advice and support regarding problems that may have come up due to the cost-of-living crisis.