Over 6053 food parcels distributed in winter 2022

Published: 3 March 2023

In October 2022, the Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA) began their cost-of-living assistance campaign to help those struggling to access food.

The aim of the campaign was to raise £250,000 and ensure no one goes without food over the winter. As the halfway mark is passed, a remarkable £130,000 has already been raised, including £26,000 worth of heated blankets, slow cookers and air fryers which have been purchased in partnership with Derby Homes.

Between October and December 2022, the campaign has:

• Delivered over 6053 food parcels across 15 partner projects
• Provided 300 heated blankets, 300 air fryers and 300 slow cookers to those in need
• Received donations of 16 pallets of high-quality bedding which are currently being distributed
• Collected over £120,000 of surplus food from Costco collections and customer purchases and donations from Morrisons
• Delivered 271 Christmas Day meals

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

Through the cost-of-living crisis, our partnership with Community Action Derby has been crucial to offering support, advice, and comfort to those in need. This campaign is doing an incredible job of providing essential items such as food and bedding to those who this crisis has hit the hardest. All I can say is a massive thank you to all those who have donated to the campaign so far and to all those who have volunteered their time to help.

It is important to remember that even though this campaign approaches its end in April, the need for donations will continue beyond then. I strongly encourage those who can, to donate what they can, spread awareness, and get involved themselves wherever possible.”

Paul Brookhouse, Project Manager of DF4TA said:

The support from the public and businesses this winter had been amazing. Our aim was to make sure no-one went without food or froze this winter. We wouldn’t have been able to meet the massive increase in demand without the help. 

We recognise that the challenge beyond April is mounting and ask that people continue to support us support residents at this difficult time.”

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

You can also find more information on cost-of-living support on the new cost-of-living online support hub that was created in partnership by Derby City Council and Community Action Derby. 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.

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