Red Funnel has worked hand-in-hand with one of its long-term freight customers, Acclaim Logistics, to collect hundreds of tin cans as part of a food donation drive for its Charity of The Year partner, the Isle of Wight Foodbank.
The can drive took place during Cowes Week, with Acclaim generously donating 250 tins to support local Island families and individuals facing food poverty. Hundreds more have been kindly donated by Red Funnel customers and local businesses, taking the total donated to 600 cans.
This effort comes at a critical time when many in the local community are struggling with food insecurity.
Since the start of the year, Red Funnel has raised over £16,000 in cash donations thanks to the generosity of customers, also pledging a donation of 50p from the sale of Captain Ted Funnel and Captain Ruby Funnel teddy bear toys, and collecting over 300kg in food donations to help local Island people in crisis.
The Isle of Wight Foodbank plays a vital role in supporting Islanders in need. Operating across 5 locations, including Cowes, Newport, Ryde, Shanklin, and the West Wight, the charity works closely with over 100 frontline care professionals to provide food to those experiencing hardship. Beyond addressing food poverty, the Isle of Wight Foodbank also creates volunteering opportunities for more than 100 residents, helping them build new skills and gain valuable experience.
Lee Hudson, Commercial Director at Red Funnel, expressed his thanks for support of the can drive, stating:
“We’re extremely grateful to Acclaim and our customers for their contributions to the Island community. The can drive, and the collaborative efforts between Red Funnel colleagues, Acclaim, and the wider community, creates a direct and meaningful impact on the Island’s most vulnerable residents. We’re looking forward to continuing our fundraising efforts for the Foodbank over the coming months and continuing to support this vital local cause.”
Currently the Isle of Wight Foodbank are seeking donations for a variety of items including tinned fish, vegetables, fruit, soup, as well as vital male and female hygiene products such as deodorants, shampoo and shaving gel. Cans can be dropped off at any Isle of Wight foodbank collection bin located inside all Red Funnel’s four terminals.
To find out more about the Isle of Wight Foodbank, including how you can help or receive help at any of the charity’s five foodbank ‘cafes’ located in Cowes, Newport, Ryde, Shanklin, and Freshwater, visit www.isleofwight.foodbank.org.uk.
If I saw evidence the people in need actually benefited from the food bank I would donate to one, however it appears most of the people taking the donations have the latest phone, smart watch, nice car… etc.