Co-op customers donated more than 22,000 meals to Christmas food bank appeal

Central England Co-op has said a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to customers and members in Yorkshire after 45,000 items were donated in support of the 2020 Christmas Food Bank Appeal.

In a statement, the Co-op said: "The retailer hosted a special appeal throughout December in an effort to bring a little festive cheer and provide emergency food and support to individuals and families in crisis as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting lockdowns continue to be felt.

"Colleagues at more than 240 food stores across 16 counties used already strong connections with local food bank providers to encourage people to drop off one or more items – resulting in an amazing response.

"The incredible support from the public for the appeal is particularly humbling, combined with their wonderful backing for the retailer’s 2020 Christmas Toybox Appeal which also saw over 12,000 presents and stocking fillers donated to give children who might otherwise have missed out a Christmas to remember."

Debbie Robinson, Central England Co-operative chief executive, said: “I have once again been overwhelmed by the fantastic response to our Christmas campaigns from customers, members and colleagues which have helped to make a real difference to people in need in our communities at this special time of year.

“As a co-operative, it is great to be able to support the great work of local food banks across our trading area during the festive season and throughout the year.

“We all want to say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who donated, not just to the Christmas Food Bank Appeal but our year-round food bank collections.

“The generosity and support on show during the challenging times we have lived through during 2020 has helped make a major difference to people from all walks of life at a time when they have needed it most.

“We now want to ask people to continue to support our food banks during 2021 so we can keep providing vital donations to good causes that can really make a positive impact on those in need."