Tesco Food Collection organisers issue plea for help

The Trussell Trust and FareShare are urging local residents to lend a hand at the Tesco store, in Kelburn Street, next month.

Shoppers will be asked to donate items for the annual Tesco Food Collection, which runs from Thursday, November 30, to Saturday, December 2.

Emma Revie, chief executive of the Trussell Trust, said: "This winter is going to be the toughest yet for the food banks in our network as they will help approximately 600,000 people and provide an emergency parcel every eight seconds. 

"The teams in our food banks are working tirelessly to ensure everyone receives the support they need but they cannot do it alone. 

"By volunteering at the Tesco Winter Food Collection you will not only be helping to gather much-needed donations to keep your local food bank going, you'll also be making a real difference to families who cannot afford the essentials in your community. If you can spare a few hours to volunteer then please do."

George Wright, chief executive of FareShare, added: "We anticipate need will keep rising as people continue to struggle to afford the essentials like food and heating this winter. 

"Tesco's support for FareShare throughout the cost of living crisis, and the last 11 years, has been unwavering, and we’re incredibly grateful for their support in helping drive more donations during what will be a difficult winter for many.

"Volunteers play a huge role in the success of the Tesco Food Collection each year. By giving up just three hours of your time, you can make a huge impact by helping more people understand the importance of donating food to FareShare during this increasingly difficult time.

"Supporting the Tesco Food Collection this December by volunteering could make all the difference to your local foodbank during this busy period."

You can sign up to volunteer with FareShare at fareshare.org.uk/foodcollection/ or with the Trussell Trust at www.trusselltrust.org/get-involved/tesco-food-collection/volunteer/