L-R: Debbie Jones and Paul Brookhouse at D4FTA
A record number of people received food from the Derby Food 4 Thought (DF4T) Alliance, based in Charnwood Street, with 12,000 adults and children given meals, food parcels and hampers over the last three months.
Paul Brookhouse, manager of the Derby charity, said the help it offered people from September to December equated to well over £150,000 worth of food.
He said: “Our extremely small team co-ordinated with partners 5,758 food parcels, 300 hampers, and prepared meals for thousands of people in need.
“It has been a record year for us here but what I do want to say is that the support we have received from local people, schools and wonderful businesses has been enormously helpful.”
Staff at the charity worked round the clock to make sure people in Derby had what they needed. Businesses including Derby-based PR and communications specialist, Nielsen McAllister in Green Lane, Alstom in Litchurch Lane, Derby, Derby County, Rolls-Royce and Allestree Woodlands School, were amongst many others helping to tackle the issue of food poverty by donating food and funds.
Paul said: “The support has been amazing and there are many other businesses who turned up at the office and delivered food.”
D4FTA is continuing to see people are struggling to feed their families after Christmas and reports that January and February are particularly tough. To meet this challenge, the charity is issuing a fresh appeal for food donations during this cost-of-living crisis.
“We are currently in the coldest quarter of the year and people are still coming to us for help. Our phone line rings constantly, and we are always working with our partners to deliver food parcels to people,” said Paul.
“Everyone has been so generous and kind – but please don’t forget about us.”
The charity is welcoming new donations and reminding businesses about its 100 Club. Launched last year, firms willing to donate £100 a month over 12 months, can join the charitable giving scheme and help DF4T with much needed funds.
Paul concluded: “I have been extremely humbled by the response from Derby people to date. One day, I hope we can reach a time when our service isn’t required but whilst there is a need, we must do what we can to support.
“I would like to say a huge thank you to those who have helped us so far and to those who are able to continue this please do, we still need all the support we can get.”
Those interested in supporting the 100 Club campaign or making a donation can get in touch with Paul at DF4T Alliance on Derby (01332) 227730 or email [email protected].
