food banks

As the festive season approaches, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the spirit of giving and to extend a helping hand to those in need. In Cambridgeshire and Huntingdonshire, there are several wonderful food banks dedicated to providing essential support to local communities throughout the year. This Christmas, consider making a meaningful difference by donating to these vital organisations.

  1. Cherry Hinton Community Food Hub
  • Address: St. John’s Church, High Street, Cherry Hinton, Cambridge, CB1 9HH
  • Contact Cherry Hinton Community Food Hub on 01223 242954
  • https://www.cherryhintonvillage.co.uk/whatwhillhelpfoodhub
  • The Cherry Hinton Food Hub plays a crucial role in supporting local residents in Cherry Hinton and the surrounding areas. They work tirelessly to ensure that no one in the community goes without food. 
  • Donations of in-date non-perishable food are welcome: they can be brought to the back door of the Church (the Centre door) and left during the time the church is open (1:30-4pm on Wed). If you would like to donate but need a different drop-off time please call the church office on 01223 242954.
  1. Cambridge City Food Banks
  • Address: Distribution centres across Cambridge
  • Contact: www.cambridgecityfoodbank.org.uk
  • Cambridge City Food Bank is a lifeline for individuals and families in crisis. With multiple distribution centres across the city, they make it easy for donors to get involved and support those in need.
  1. Godmanchester Food Bank
  • Address: Godmanchester Baptist Church, East Chadley Lane, Godmanchester, PE29 2BJ
  • Contact Godmanchester Food Bank on 01480 277 239 or email admin@gbcfoodbank.org.uk 
  • Food wish list: jam, puddings (tinned or packet rice pudding, ready-prepared custard), UHT semi-skimmed milk, tinned veg (peas, carrots, sweetcorn), tinned meat (hot or cold), tinned fish (tuna or other oily fish), tinned fruit, squash (1 litre)
  1. St. Ives Food Bank
  • Address: All Saints Church, Church Street, Westwood Road, St Ives, PE27 6DG
  • Contact St Ives Food Bank on 07835 521541 or email foodbank.stives@gmail.com
  • Food wish list: long-life milk, cream crackers, custard (tins, not powder please), rice pudding, tinned meat pies, basmati rice, cleaning products (washing up liquid, washing powder/capsules), cake, and biscuits.
  1. The Trussell Trust Ely Food Bank
  • Address: The Lighthouse Centre, Lynn Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB6 1PU
  • Contact Ely Trussell Trust on 01353 468626
  • ely.foodbank.org.uk
  • Ely Food Bank is a part of The Trussell Trust network and is committed to helping individuals and families facing food poverty. They offer support to the most vulnerable in the community and rely on the generosity of donors and volunteers.
  1. March Food Bank
  • Address: Centenary Baptist Church, Highstreet, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 9LB
  • Contact Ely Trussell Trust on 01353 468626
  • march.foodbank.org.uk 
  • The March Food Bank provides crucial support to the March community. They are dedicated to alleviating poverty and providing a safety net for those in need. Donations for the food bank can be left at Centenary Baptist Church when the food bank is open on Tuesdays.

Why Donate to Food Banks This Christmas?

The holiday season is a time of celebration and abundance for many, but it’s essential to remember that there are those who are less fortunate and may struggle to put food on the table. Donating to your local food bank this Christmas can make a significant impact by ensuring that everyone in the community can experience the warmth and joy of the season.

How to Make a Donation:

  • Food Donations: Most food banks accept non-perishable items such as canned goods, pasta, rice, and other essential food items. Check with your chosen food bank for specific requirements and donation drop-off points.
  • Monetary Donations: Many food banks also welcome financial contributions, which allow them to purchase fresh produce and other necessities.
  • Volunteer: If you have some spare time, consider volunteering at your local food bank. Your assistance can help with sorting and distributing food to those in need.