Supporting Cambridge City Foodbank's Christmas Hamper Appeal

24 October 2023

Cambridge City Foodbank has launched its annual Christmas Hamper Appeal in partnership with Cambridge Sustainable Food and Cambridge City Council, and is aiming for a record number of pledges to back its campaign.

The appeal, now in its ninth year, invites individuals, organisations, businesses and community groups to pledge to donate a hamper filled with a range of festive treats and essential food and hygiene items that will be distributed to those in need over the Christmas period.

In September, the Foodbank experienced its second busiest month in its 13-year history. Across the year, the Foodbank has on average distributed 14% more food compared with the same period in 2022. Annually, the Christmas period sees a significant rise in the numbers of people being forced to turn to the Foodbank for support, and with the cost of living crisis still ongoing, this is only set to increase. To achieve a record number of pledges, the Cambridge population will need to donate 800 hampers.

Cambridge City Foodbank CEO, Steve Clay, said: “This year has already been incredibly tough for those experiencing poverty in Cambridge, and as we head into winter, many more people across the city will be sadly forced into food insecurity. No one should face hunger at any point, but particularly at Christmas – a time of celebration – and in one the UK’s wealthiest cities, it is truly heartbreaking to think that there are people unable to buy the essential items required to feed and clean themselves and their families.

“The Christmas hampers will help the those struggling the most in our city through a very difficult period and, hopefully, spread some festive cheer at a time of hardship. If you are able to pledge to donate a hamper, you will be making a profoundly positive difference to the lives of those in need, and I thank you sincerely for your generosity.”

For the fourth year running, the Foodbank has partnered with Cambridge Sustainable Food and Cambridge City Council for the hamper appeal. Cambridge Sustainable Food will source and distribute fresh vegetables to households in need shortly before Christmas, and the council will arrange for toys to be included within the hampers for families with children.

Sam Dyer, CEO of Cambridge Sustainable Food, said: “The response to the Christmas project previously has been fantastic and we hope that this year will be no different. Initiatives like this are central to achieving food justice for all and we hope that it will make the holiday season a little brighter for many families in our city.”

Cambridge City Foodbank is asking those interested in donating a Christmas Hamper to register first. A collection will be held on 10 and 12 December, but prior registration is required.

How to support the appeal

Gifts should be delivered during opening hours to: