Struggling families supported throughout summer holidays

Local foodbanks are receiving a welcome boost as an extra 2,114KG of food is donated, the equivalent of 5,032 meals.

Food bank drives took place at 12 Lincolnshire Co-op food stores, including Sutton Bridge, Holton Le Clay, Hykeham Green in Lincoln, Goxhill, Bourne, Collingham, Morton Bourne, Chapel St Leonards, Billinghay, Carlton Centre in Lincoln, Kilton, and Springfield Road in Grantham.

The push for donations began in June, ahead of school holidays, as local food banks reported higher usage during this time, despite typically receiving less support.

Barton Area Foodbank was one of the services to benefit. Volunteer Janet Shepardson said: “We don’t get any funding, so we rely entirely on donations. Unfortunately, the number of people needing our support continues to grow, and demand increases even further during the summer holidays, when families no longer have access to free school meals.

“That’s why receiving such a large donation at this time of year is especially valuable. I want to say a massive thank you to every person who donated; it will make a world of difference to those in our community who need it most.”

The events saw communities come together, with contributions from eight local businesses, including Turilicious Sauces, based in Newark.

Efeturi Emeledor, Founder of Turilicious Sauces, said: “When our local Lincolnshire Co-op Community Co-ordinator, Mary-Jane, reached out to ask for support for the Collingham Food Pantry donation drive, we knew we wanted to help; the food pantry does incredible work, providing essential aid to vulnerable families in our local area.

“We are so proud to have contributed, alongside so many other generous locals. A big thanks to the team at Lincolnshire Co-op for organising such a vital initiative!”

Seven local schools have also got involved in food bank drives, including Chapel St Leonards Primary School.

The school’s Pastoral Lead, Issabelle Summers, said: “By handing out leaflets on the day, the children were able to use their social skills and grow their confidence. Being part of the drive also encouraged them to consider the perspectives of those who are in need.

“Every child was keen to help and showed kindness and empathy. We are all exceptionally proud of them!”

Lincolnshire Co-op is currently fundraising for local food banks, through its Community Champions scheme, which sees thousands of pounds donated to local good causes each year.

Colleagues get involved in fundraising, customers donate change into collection pots, and a donation is made by the co-operative every time a member shops with their dividend card.

The retailer also collects for food banks all year round, with donation baskets positioned in every food store.

Community Manager at Lincolnshire Co-op, Sam Turner, said: “We know that lots of people are feeling the pressure of rising costs right now, making the services that our local food banks provide even more valuable.

“It’s incredible to see so many local businesses and individuals have chosen to donate to our food bank drives, despite this challenging financial climate, and we are proud to have bought the community together to ensure families can access the support they need during the summer holidays.”