The Sunderland Foodbank has launched a new appeal in Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, asking the community to donate food, money, or time during Lent 2026. The “Give In Lent” campaign, which began on February 3, 2026, aims to rebuild emergency food stocks after a busy winter and ensure there is enough support for people in crisis during the coming months.
Organisers are asking for specific items like tinned meat and long-life milk to help restock the main warehouse at the Drum Industrial Estate. The appeal runs from February 17 to April 3, 2026, and residents can leave donations at collection points in local supermarkets or add one item to a donation box every day at home.
According to the Durham Christian Partnership, which runs the foodbank, local demand remains high because of the rising cost of living. Distribution manager Jonathan Conlon said that donations have slowed down as many people who usually give are now struggling with their own costs.
The charity works with the Trussell Trust and the Gentoo Group to run collection centres in Pennywell, Washington, and Houghton-le-Spring. This campaign is meant to help the charity prepare for the summer months so that no one in the city has to face going hungry.
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