In a poignant appeal during the Christmas season, the East Riding of Yorkshire Council is urging its residents to extend their support to local food banks, highlighting the growing need for assistance among families facing hardship. This call to action is fundamental in ensuring that those struggling with food insecurity receive the help they desperately require during this festive period.
The council specifically called upon community members to donate food and household items or volunteer their time to the East Riding Food Poverty Alliance from Friday, November 28. Donation points are being established across various locations, including leisure centers, libraries, and multi-service centers. Notably, Hornsea Hub is one designated location that will facilitate these contributions.
Jo Ramsay, chair of the East Riding Food Poverty Alliance, stressed the significance of community support, stating, “Your support helps us provide not just food, but hope, dignity, and a lifeline to those facing hardship in our communities.” This appeal underscores the often-overlooked reality of hunger in communities, where individuals might feel isolated in their struggles.
The council has reported remarkable efforts from the food alliance, which has successfully distributed over 360,000 meals to individuals in crisis from 2024 to 2025, thanks to the support of the council’s regeneration and funding teams. This impressive figure illustrates the crucial role that food banks play in alleviating food insecurity and the dedication of volunteers who facilitate these operations.
As part of the ongoing efforts, the authority has also made provisions for donation sites such as Bridlington Spa and South Cliff Caravan Park. Community members can contribute through a variety of food items, including canned goods, cereals, pasta, rice, and snacks, alongside non-food essentials such as toiletries, household items, and even pet food. The diverse range of acceptable donations aims to meet the varied needs of families who rely on food banks to make ends meet during challenging times.
Moreover, the council is actively seeking volunteers to assist with food sorting, packing, and distribution—a vital yet often overlooked aspect of the food bank operations. Councillor Lyn Healing, the cabinet member for communities and public protection, emphasized the critical role that food banks play in supporting vulnerable individuals and families within the community. She urged residents to involve themselves not only during the holiday season but throughout the entire year, stating, “The allowance plays a key role in supporting the vulnerable across our communities, and we’re proud to support their vital work.”
Behind the statistics and urgent calls for assistance, there is a human story unfolding—one where hunger frequently hides in plain sight. It can affect friends, neighbors, coworkers, and families in East Riding, underscoring the importance of social awareness and community support in combatting poverty.
This kind of community-driven initiative not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a sense of belonging and empathy among the residents. As the holiday season approaches, collective efforts towards supporting food banks highlight the power of community and the difference individuals can make when they come together for a common cause.
In reflecting on the pressing issue of food insecurity, it’s crucial for residents to understand that their actions, whether through donations or volunteering, go beyond mere charity. They serve to instill hope, restoring dignity to those who may feel marginalized and turning a collective effort into a significant impact on the lives of many. The East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s initiative is not just about combating hunger—it’s about creating a community that engages with and uplifts its most vulnerable members, particularly during the festive season.
