As the nights draw in and the cold starts to bite, Swindon’s Tesco stores are once again preparing for their annual Winter Food Collection – a simple but significant way for shoppers to support neighbours who are feeling the strain.
Each year the appeal gathers long-life food for Trussell and FareShare, two charities whose work becomes increasingly vital as winter approaches. Last year, people across the town offered thousands of items, and both organisations are expecting even greater pressure this time round.
FareShare reports that a growing number of the groups they support are now helping families with children, while Trussell estimates that, across the UK, a food parcel will be handed out roughly every ten seconds during the coldest months. It’s a stark figure and one that highlights just how severe the situation has become.
To help make donating easier, larger Tesco stores in and around Swindon are offering pre-packed donation bags, filled with the long-life items most in demand. Priced at £2 to £4, the bags contain staples such as oats, cereal, soups, and tinned beans – reliable essentials that charities can quickly pass on to local families.
The Winter Food Collection takes place in Express stores from 24–29 November, and in the larger stores from 27–29 November.
Tesco UK CEO Ashwin Prasad said the appeal could not be more timely:
“With more families than ever likely to need support this winter, we’re encouraging customers to give whatever they can. This is our thirteenth Winter Food Collection, and the generosity we see each year makes our whole team incredibly proud.”
Food banks across the region say they are bracing themselves for a difficult few months, with rising living costs continuing to push households to breaking point.
Matthew Van Duyvenbode, co-chief executive at Trussell, said:
“A food parcel being needed every ten seconds is a sobering thought. Food banks provide warmth, conversation and vital support, but they rely on public kindness to keep going. Even one donated bag can help someone get through a very hard day.”
FareShare Chief Executive Kris Gibbon-Walsh added that, for many, winter forces an impossible choice:
“In the colder months, people often have to pick between staying warm and eating. That makes this collection more important than ever. We’re hugely grateful for the support from Tesco and everyone who donates. One item from a shopper can translate into a meal for someone who truly needs it.”
As Swindon prepares for another difficult winter, Tesco’s food collection offers a straightforward chance to help. A small gesture at the checkout could mean a warm meal for someone struggling behind closed doors.
