Aldi is encouraging shoppers to donate groceries to people in need, in order to help food banks cope with what the retailer says will be a “tough Christmas”.
Research published by community charity Neighbourly shows food bank use can soar over the festive period, with some expecting demand to increase by as much as 80% as families continue to feel the effects of the cost of living crisis. As many as a third of food banks report difficulty in finding volunteers to help.
In response, the discounter has published a list of the most in-demand items this Christmas, to guide customers looking to donate.
The list includes long-life milk, toiletries, juice and Christmas treats, which have all been identified by a panel of food banks, charities and communities as some of the items in particular demand. Petfood, laundry detergent and children’s toys are also needed.
Shoppers will be able to donate via community donation points in Aldi stores. Neighbourly will then distribute donated items to food banks.
“Christmas is always an extremely busy period for food banks and other charitable organisations helping those most in need,” said Luke Emery, Aldi UK national sustainability director.
“We know many of our customers like to support local causes by using our in-store donation points, so we hope this list of items will help shoppers pick the items that are most needed over the festive period.”
Aldi also expects to donate more than one million meals to local charities over the festive period, as part of its annual food donation efforts.
“With many food banks and local charities facing increased demand and lower donations, any extra support we can get this Christmas will be vital,” said Neighbourly CEO Steve Butterworth.
“By highlighting the most-needed items, Aldi is making it easier for customers to support their local communities. We’re proud to be working in partnership to ensure those donations reach the people who need them this festive season.”
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