Kind-hearted customers at Tesco's stores across the UK have demonstrated extraordinary generosity during the recent Winter Food Collection, donating more than 1.9 million meals worth of long-life food items. From November 15 to 30, shoppers at both large and Express stores participated, proving their commitment to supporting local communities as they approach the Christmas season.
During this year’s collection, notable contributions came from Tesco locations including Airdrie and Coatbridge, where customers alone donated over 8,000 meals. The incredible effort reflects national statistics, where the total collection will serve to provide much-needed support for charitable organizations including FareShare and the Trussell Trust. Together, these contributions are pivotal, especially with the rising numbers of people relying on food banks during the holiday season.
Ken Murphy, CEO of Tesco, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the efforts of customers: "I just want to say a huge thank you to every single person who donated items at this year’s Winter Food Collection. Their generosity is always so amazing and really helps to make a huge impact in communities across the UK supported by Trussell and FareShare." Murphy's words highlight the importance of community involvement at this time of year.
According to reports, the collected items will be distributed by Trussell to provide emergency food parcels to individuals who are struggling to afford basic necessities. On the other hand, FareShare will utilize these donations to bolster the supply chain for thousands of local charities, ensuring they can continue to provide support where it is needed most.
This winter, the need for these services has intensified due to the increased financial pressures families experience during the holidays. To address this need, Tesco is not only reliant on customer donations but has also pledged £500,000 to support both FareShare and Trussell. With this funding, these charities can continue their invaluable work of providing food and assistance to those facing hardship, especially as many foodbanks report being at breaking point.
Kristopher Gibbon-Walsh, the CEO of FareShare, also spoke of his appreciation for widespread customer support: "Every year, we are blown away by the generosity of Tesco customers at the Winter Food Collection, and this year is no exception. Thank you to every single person who volunteered, donated food, rounded up their shopping, or made donations. Your kindness will enable us to keep food flowing to those who need it most, fostering community resilience this winter."
Similarly, Emma Revie, CEO of the Trussell Trust, echoed the sentiments of gratitude, stating, "Thanks to your efforts, we have collected 1.8 million meals to support people who need food banks this winter. Together we can end hunger for good." Revie emphasized the charity’s mission to provide assistance as demand for food banks rises, noting the sobering statistic of over 1.4 million emergency food parcels distributed between April and September this year across the UK.
These donations have not only served as immediate relief for hunger but also as reminders of the strength of community ties during challenging times. Both FareShare and Trussell rely heavily on public support to operate successfully, and as winter progresses, the need for food banks will likely continue to grow.
Tesco has set up permanent collection points throughout its UK stores, enabling shoppers to contribute food items continually, beyond the designated collection period. Customers can still donate online as well, ensuring every contribution counts. This approach not only aims to alleviate hunger but builds community strength, allowing people to stand together against food insecurity.
With the holiday spirit encouraging giving, Tesco’s Winter Food Collection is not just about meeting immediate needs but also about reinforcing the kindness found within communities. It’s about sharing the message of hope, compassion, and solidarity as families come together for the festive season, demonstrating how, when united, we can make significant strides against hunger.
