As the festive season quickly approaches, it’s a time to reflect, give back, and support those in need within our community. Every year, we organise donations for the local Foodbank, Junction 7 and it’s something that’s become a tradition we deeply value. This year, everyone in the office to join in—whether by contributing to our fundraiser or bringing in their own food donations. Thanks to their generosity, this year’s collection has been the biggest yet!

It’s heartwarming to see so many people come together to make a real difference for local families. But it’s also a sobering reminder of just how many people rely on foodbanks—not just during the holidays, but all year round.

The Rising Need for Foodbanks in the UK

Foodbanks play a vital role in supporting individuals and families. Unfortunately, the need for these services has grown significantly in recent years. According to the Trussell Trust, a network that supports foodbanks across the UK:

• Between April 2022 and March 2023, foodbanks in the UK distributed over 3 million emergency food parcels—the highest number on record.
• Of these parcels, nearly 1 million went to children.
• The North East of England has some of the highest levels of food insecurity in the UK, with many families unable to afford basic essentials.

In our region, including Newton Aycliffe, foodbanks have seen a surge in demand, driven by rising living costs, stagnant wages, and the ongoing challenges many face in the wake of economic uncertainty.

Why Supporting Local Foodbanks Matters

For many people, foodbanks are a lifeline. They provide more than just food—they offer dignity, hope, and a sense of community to those who are struggling. In areas like Newton Aycliffe, where the impact of economic challenges is acutely felt, local foodbanks rely heavily on donations to keep their services running.
Contributing to a foodbank isn’t just about filling shelves; it’s about addressing a real need in our community. A bag of pasta, a tin of soup, or a packet of biscuits might seem small, but for someone in need, it can make all the difference.

Coming Together as a Team

This year, the response from my colleagues has been truly inspiring. From donating food items like tinned goods, cereals, and toiletries to contributing to our office fundraiser, everyone stepped up to make a difference. When the foodbank team comes to collect our donations, they’ll be taking away the largest contribution we’ve ever made. It’s a proud moment for all of us and a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together.

How You Can Help

If you’re inspired to give back, here are a few ways you can support your local foodbank:

1. Donate Food: Most foodbanks welcome non-perishable items like canned goods, rice, pasta, and toiletries.
2. Contribute Financially: Many foodbanks accept monetary donations, which they use to purchase essential supplies.
3. Volunteer: Offer your time to help with sorting donations, packing parcels, or distributing food.
4. Raise Awareness: Share the work of your local foodbank on social media or within your community to encourage others to get involved.

Supporting the Newton Aycliffe Foodbank has become a yearly tradition we are incredibly proud of. It’s a reminder that, even in difficult times, small acts of kindness can have a huge impact. While it’s heartening to see such generosity, it’s also a call to action to address the root causes of food insecurity so that one day, foodbanks may no longer be necessary.

If you’re looking for a way to give back this season, I encourage you to support your local foodbank. Together, we can help ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.