People in Lichfield are being asked to support a festive food bank appeal.

The campaign is being launched by Central England Co-operative after a similar initiative led to 75,000 items being collected to help those in need.

The 2019 Christmas Food Bank Appeal is looking for items such as tea, tinned fruit and toiletries, as well as special festive treats such as chocolate, all of which can be dropped off at Boley Park Supermarket or Curborough Road Convenience Store.

Among those already supporting the appeal are Whittington FC, whose 25 teams across all age groups have been busy collecting dozens of goods over the last few weeks ready to donate to the cause.

The campaign follows the Society’s Christmas Toybox Appeal held during November.

Central England Co-operative’s chief executive Debbie Robinson said: “Following the fantastic support our first ever Toybox Appeal received we are now turning our attention to our vital Christmas Foodbank Appeal which has helped to create and provide meals for people across the area in need over the last few years.

“The campaign relies on the wonderful generosity of our customers and members and I would like to thank them for their continued support and encourage them to again show their co-operative spirit so our food bank partners can provide emergency food and support to individuals and families in crisis.

“We are also issuing a plea on behalf of food banks to help spread a little Christmas cheer by donating a nice treat into our special collection points.

“All we are asking is that people drop off one or more items into our food banks this Christmas and help make a real difference in their community.”

“A real lifeline to families in need”

The Christmas Food Bank Appeal will run from 1st to 24th December.

The donations will be put into food parcels containing around 11 items which will provide at least three days’ worth of meals for those in need.

David Clark, from Lichfield Food Bank, said: “We are delighted to support the Central England Co-op Christmas Food Bank Appeal.

“At this time of year it is critical that every food bank is stocked full of basic supplies and little treats to provide a real lifeline to families in need of support and ensure people don’t go hungry during the festive season.

“We are appealing to customers to back this vital campaign by donating an item or two and ensuring that the Christmas Food Bank Appeal is a major success.”