A call has gone out for donations in Somerset to help families struggling to put food on the table.
Shoppers in the county are being encouraged to drop off essential groceries at their nearest Aldi through its nationwide community collection points, with all donations distributed to nearby foodbanks and charities.
The appeal is particularly focused on the summer school holidays, a period that often brings increased financial strain for families with children at home.
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.
“By sharing the items charities need most, we hope to make it as easy as possible for shoppers to give back while they’re in store.”
Neighbourly, Aldi’s long-standing charity partner, has identified the most needed items, which include tinned food, toiletries, tea/coffee, breakfast cereals, juices and soft drinks, UHT milk, laundry and cleaning products, rice and pasta, cooking sauces/oils/condiments, pet food, and baby essentials.
Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, said: “When schools break up for summer, many families lose access to the support they rely on during term time, while household food costs often increase.
“That’s why donations of everyday essentials are so important.
“Thanks to the continued support of Aldi and its customers, local charities can respond to increased demand and help ensure families have access to the support they need throughout the holidays.”
In addition to customer contributions, Aldi expects to donate an estimated 2m meals to charities, foodbanks and community organisations across the UK this summer through its partnership with Neighbourly.
The retailer also works with Company Shop to redistribute surplus food from its regional distribution centres and partners with The Salvation Army to donate unsold non-food Specialbuys to people in need.