Lincolnshire Co-op has helped deliver the equivalent of more than 5,000 meals to local food banks after a series of community donation drives across its food stores ahead of the summer holidays.
The retailer said its collections generated 2,114kg of food – equivalent to 5,032 meals – following food bank drives held at 12 stores across Lincolnshire, including Sutton Bridge, Holton Le Clay, Goxhill, Bourne, Collingham, Billinghay and two locations in Lincoln.
The initiative was launched in June after local food banks warned that demand typically rises during the school summer holidays, when many children no longer have access to free school meals, while donations often decline.
Among the beneficiaries was Barton Area Foodbank, whose volunteer Janet Shepardson said the timing of the donations was particularly important.
“We don't get any funding, so we rely entirely on donations,” she said. “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 campaign also attracted support from eight local businesses, including Newark-based Turilicious Sauces, which contributed to the food pantry drive in Collingham.
Efeturi Emeledor, founder of Turilicious Sauces, said the company was keen to support vulnerable families in the 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,” he said.
Seven local schools also took part in the collections, including Chapel St Leonards Primary School, where pupils helped distribute leaflets to shoppers during the campaign.
Pastoral lead Issabelle Summers said the initiative helped pupils build confidence while encouraging empathy for people facing hardship.
“Every child was keen to help and showed kindness and empathy. We are all exceptionally proud of them,” she said.
The food bank drives form part of Lincolnshire Co-op's wider support for food banks through its Community Champions fundraising scheme. The retailer raises money through customer donations, colleague fundraising and contributions linked to members shopping with their dividend cards. Permanent food donation baskets are also available in all of its food stores throughout the year.
Sam Turner, community manager at Lincolnshire Co-op, said the campaign demonstrated the strength of community support despite continued pressure on household finances.
“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,” Turner said.
“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 brought the community together to ensure families can access the support they need during the summer holidays.”