South West families face summer squeeze as Aldi backs foodbank appeal
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
As schools break up for the summer, Aldi is calling on shoppers across Devon, Dorset and Somerset to help local foodbanks by donating essential items during their weekly shop.
The supermarket chain says the summer holidays can be one of the most challenging periods for families already struggling with the rising cost of living. With children at home for six weeks and free school meals unavailable, many households face additional pressure on already stretched budgets.
Foodbanks play an increasingly important role in communities, providing emergency support to families, pensioners, people facing illness, and those experiencing unexpected financial hardship.
Beyond supplying food, many foodbanks act as community hubs, offering advice, signposting to support services and helping prevent vulnerable residents from falling into crisis.
To help meet demand, Aldi has highlighted the items most frequently requested by local foodbanks through its charity partner Neighbourly. These include tinned foods, cereals, rice, pasta, UHT milk, tea, coffee, fruit juice, toiletries, baby products and pet food.
Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said: “The summer holidays can be a particularly difficult time for many families, with the cost of keeping children fed while they’re home from school putting extra pressure on household budgets.
“We know our customers are incredibly generous and want to support people in their local communities.
“Even adding just one extra everyday essential to your weekly shop can make a real difference.”
Shoppers can leave donations at collection points located in Aldi stores, with contributions distributed to nearby foodbanks and charitable organisations through Neighbourly’s community network.
The retailer estimates that its partnership with the charity will help provide around two million meals across the UK during the summer period.
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