Food bank donations at your local FoodCoop
Food banks give emergency food to people in your community who need extra support. You can help by leaving a donation at the food bank at many of our local FoodCoop stores. If you need support yourself, find out how to get help from a food bank.
How can I donate to a food bank at FoodCoop?
To donate at FoodCoop, pick up an extra item or two with your shop and leave them in the food bank collection point.
If you can't spot the collection point, ask one of our colleagues. We work with local food bank partners, so your donation helps people close to home.
What should I donate?
Everyday essentials such as tea, sugar, cereal, tinned fruit and toiletries are always in demand.
Toiletries and hygiene products matter as much as food. They help people look after themselves with dignity through a difficult time.
At Christmas, you could add a festive treat to your donation too, to share a little cheer.
What happens to my donations?
Your donations go to a local food bank partner, where they're packed into emergency food parcels for people who need them.
Each parcel holds around 11 items, enough for at least three days of meals.
Our food stores are home to collection points for a number of our local food bank partners.
Can I support a food bank in other ways?
As well as donating food, you can support your local food bank by volunteering.
Buy a food bank bag
When you buy a food bank reusable bag at the till, the money from the sale goes to support food banks.
Volunteer at your local food bank
Food banks are always looking for volunteers to sort donations and hand out food parcels. Contact your nearest food bank to find out how to get involved.
Part of your community
Supporting food banks is one of the ways our stores put community wellbeing first, through OurCoop Difference. Since 2024, we have also donated 5.4 million surplus items via Olio, keeping good food out of the bin.
How do I get help from a food bank?
To get help from a food bank, you'll usually need a referral from a professional such as a doctor, social worker or Citizens Advice.
Health visitors can refer you too. The person who refers you will usually give you a voucher to take to your local food bank for an emergency food parcel.
Some food banks, such as those run by churches and other charities, may not need a referral. Contact your nearest food bank directly to check.
Where else can I get support?
These free services can help:
Help through Hardship helpline: call 0808 208 2138, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm, to talk to a trained adviser. It's open to people in England and Wales.
Citizens Advice: advice on money, debt and using a food bank.
Trussell: a charity that supports a network of food banks across the UK. You can find your nearest food bank on its website.
Mind: support if money worries are affecting your mental health.