Each year, South Derbyshire CVS launches an annual appeal to help finance the work of its Foodbank. Normally it's a Christmas appeal, but this year and because of the pandemic, it's become a Winter Giving Campaign. Demand for food and support is likely to increase significantly beyond Christmas, over the winter and as the effect of CV19 take hold.

The people and businesses of South Derbyshire are always very generous and we regularly receive donations of food, essential personal items and gifts. However, as a charity providing this free to access service across the district, we receive very little financial support and this puts a huge amount of pressure on our organisation. We're able to call upon volunteers to help sort and bag the food but this work has to be co-ordinated and managed. In addition and to meet increasing demand, we've moved to larger premises in Swadlincote so we can continue to provide pastoral care and support to beneficiaries whilst signposting to other agencies. All this takes time and resources and we estimate the cost of this service to South Derbyshire CVS to be in the region of £50,000 per year

This year's Winter Giving Campaign is appealing for financial donations to help support this critical provision to individuals who may have suffered ill-health, lost their job or fallen victim to some other significant change in their personal circumstances. A small donation collectively, can make a huge difference and for that reason, I'd welcome any help you are able to give in getting this message out across your Parish and the wider district.

Sdcvs.org.uk/donate

• SDCVS Winter Giving Campaign (PDF, 3.1 Mb)