Morrisons has launched a new plan to help restock the nation’s food banks, after research found a huge leap in the people set to need help this year.
Charity The Trussell Trust predicted a 61 % rise in the number of food parcels it will need as more people struggle as a result of Covid-19.
So Morrisons decided to make it easier than ever to pick up what food banks are most in need of.
Morrisons community director Rebecca Singleton said: “We have worked with food banks across the UK to identify the key items that are most needed by the vulnerable in our communities.
“The UK’s food banks are a lifeline for many people and we want to make it easier for customers to donate so that no one is left behind this Christmas.”
Morrisons has introduced of 'Food Bank Priority Item' signs in all stores next to products that are most needed by food banks in each local area, and be updated them regularly.
Customers will also be able to buy a festive version of Morrisons’ Pick Up Packs - pre-packed bags of groceries that food banks will be most in need of in their locality.
Customers can pick up packs on their way into stores, pay for them at the till, then put them in a dedicated donation station on the way out for collection by food bank volunteers.
Morrisons is also bringing in Toy Donation Stations to let customers drop off a new toy for struggling families.
Donated items are handed to local good causes and charities.
The Priority Food Bank Item signs and festive Pick Up Packs follow Morrisons' £10million donation to food banks earlier in the pandemic, as well as its ‘Buy One, Donate One’ campaign with McVities Biscuits.
Speaking about the biscuit donation scheme, Singleton said: “Many people have had a really difficult year and everybody deserves a treat this Christmas."
