This year, like everything else, it will be a little different - but they are determined to still ensure as many people receive a hamper as possible.
However, there will be some differences to previous years:
Firstly, they will be accepting hampers throughout the whole month of December and will be delivering them throughout December too. This will ensure their volunteers can socially distance and still get the hampers to where they need to be.
Secondly, they are not asking for any restock hampers this year - if you would like to help them restock their shelves this Christmas, please leave all donations at their existing donation points in Asda and Sainsburys.
Thirdly, they need everyone to Email them to let them know you are making a hamper (or more than one!) so that they can offer you a drop off timeslot.
Please Email them at: info@swale.foodbank.org.uk with ‘Hampers Of Hope’ in the subject heading and giving your name and how many hampers you will be making.
Hamper Top tips
Do decorate your box - even the most boring looking box can look wonderful with a bit of wrapping paper, tinsel, tissue paper or ribbon!
Don't include any alcohol. They do not give alcohol out and will have to remove it before the hamper goes out for delivery.
Do include at least 20 Christmassy food items: candy canes, chocolate coins, boxes of biscuits, stuffing mix, gravy, cranberry sauce, pickled onions, trifle packs, selection boxes etc.
Don't include any fresh items that won’t last at least a week in a non-refrigerated environment. They cannot accept these.
Do feel free to include any small non-food items as well eg brand new hat/scarf/gloves, Christmassy stickers, small toys etc.
Do have fun making your hamper! The saying ‘It is better to give than receive’ is actually true!
Thank you
Swale Foodbank is part of the Trussell Trust.
Find out more about the valuable work they do at: https://swale.foodbank.org.uk
William Little
