Cambridge City Foodbank has launched its annual Christmas Hamper Appeal so families and individuals struggling financially across Cambridge can receive a hamper, filled with a range of festive treats.
The Christmas Hamper Appeal, now in its eighth year, invites individuals, schools, churches, businesses and community groups to donate a hamper, which is then distributed through housing associations, family centres, Cambridge City Council and the Fairbite Club.
This December, Cambridge City Foodbank will also work with Cambridge Sustainable Food and Cambridge City Council to get much needed support to local families. In a joint approach, the three organisations will make sure that families who need help will receive a Christmas hamper full of seasonal goodies, a bag of fresh fruit and vegetables, and where possible, a family game or toy for younger members of the family.
Cambridge City Foodbank recently revealed that September had been its busiest ever month on record, with 1,331 people in Cambridge receiving an emergency food parcel from the foodbank. High demand is set to continue into the winter months as the cost of living crisis intensifies.
Stephen Thornton, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Cambridge City Foodbank, said: “Although Cambridge is considered a prosperous area, the reality is that there are many families who struggle financially and Christmas can be a very difficult time. Saying Happy Christmas is easy but, together, we can do something to make it that bit happier for people.
“We were so grateful to receive and distribute 500 hampers in 2020 and 640 in 2021; the generosity of the public was so inspiring. This year, we are hoping to go further and make it our biggest year ever so more people can be supported and have a happier Christmas.”
Cambridge City Foodbank is asking those who wish to donate a Christmas hamper to register first. The hampers can be dropped off at the Foodbank warehouse at Orwell House (CB4 0PP) on 4 and 6 December.
To register, or to find out more about the appeal, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cambridge-city-food-bank-christmas-hampers-2022-tickets-440585993567
