Supporting Our Communities: The UCKG Food Bank Initiative
How do you know if your neighbour, colleague, or even a relative is in need? Often, the signs are not immediately visible. But by taking a moment to pay closer attention, we may begin to notice subtle indicators that someone is facing hardship.
As of early 2025, it is reported that 14% of UK households experience food insecurity. Alarmingly, 5% of these households have gone an entire day without eating due to a lack of access to, or affordability of, food. Even more concerning, 68% of working-age adults living in poverty are part of households where at least one adult is employed.
The UCKG Food Bank was established in 2020 in response to such growing needs—needs that became even more urgent during the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when many were furloughed, lost their jobs, or were unable to access basic necessities, the food bank’s role became not only important but essential. What began as a practical response to local hardship quickly became a vital lifeline for families navigating one of the most difficult periods in recent history.
Since then, our food banks have expanded to serve more areas across the UK, offering a helping hand to countless individuals and families. One beneficiary shared:
“My family has received support from the UCKG Food Bank, and we are so happy to have you here.”
Another commented:
“It is amazing to know that our local community has this kind of help to keep it thriving.”
Our ongoing partnerships with organisations such as FareShare, local councils, supermarkets, and other community groups have enabled us to continue providing this much-needed support. Through these efforts, we make a range of non-perishable food items readily available—free of charge—to those in need.
A manager from one of our partner stores shared:
“It was a great experience being part of this community project. I hope we can do more in the future—this was a first for me, and I’d love to see it grow into something even greater.”
With 18 food bank locations currently operating across the UK, we remain committed to extending our reach. Our goal is to open even more doors in new areas so that no one in our communities feels they have to struggle alone.
The UCKG Food Bank opens every Saturday, from 11am to 1pm.
If you, or someone you know, could benefit from this support, please visit your nearest location.
For more information about our Food Bank projects, email us at [email protected] or call us on our 24-hour helpline on 0207 686 6000 or via our WhatsApp on 0207 686 6010.
