Philanthropy
As a philanthropist, you can play a vital and active role in supporting our work to end the need for food banks.
Our vision is for a future without the need for food banks. The reality here and now however, is that there are millions of people who simply cannot afford to put food on their table.
Trussell supports a nationwide community of over 400 food banks to provide emergency food and support to people in crisis right now, whilst campaigning for the changes needed to create a future without the need for food banks.
Our work
Supporting our community of food banks
We assist food banks to provide the best possible support to people in crisis right now. We do this by ensuring they have enough emergency food to meet the need in their community; by providing expert support and resources; and by providing grants which cover vital elements like warehouse space, staffing and food delivery costs.
It was very daunting to go to the food bank initially but because they were so welcoming, and made a coffee, I felt comfortable. Nobody judged me.
Maximising income and reducing the burden of debt
90% of people coming to food banks are in debt and many are not receiving the social security payments to which they’re entitled. In fact, approximately £16bn of budgeted social security payments are unclaimed every year.
To address this, we are working with food bank clients and those facing destitution to maximise their income and minimise debt obligation. We are developing a nationwide programme with the goal of providing anyone referred to a food bank in our community with free access to high-quality benefits and debt management advice. We are also expanding and developing our national helpline, Help through Hardship, which is run in partnership with Citizens Advice.
I couldn’t access my benefits and my Personal Independence Payment had been suspended. The helpline explained how I could start getting my benefits again and advised me on accessing public funds, as well as how to adjust my claim since I was too unwell to work.
Campaigning for change
To protect people from destitution, we know that we need a social security system that works for everyone, and secure incomes so people can afford the essentials like food and heating.
Our policy and campaigning asks are rooted in evidence from food banks in our community across the UK, and the people they support.
We work with policymakers and engage the public to ensure they understand fully the state of hunger and poverty in the UK, and what is needed to tackle the root causes of need for food banks. Trussell also currently acts as group secretariat for the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Ending the Need for Food Banks, which was established at the end of 2020.
As organisations committed to compassion, dignity and justice, together we can we authentically advocate for long-term policy solutions to end the grip of poverty. Building on our operational connections, we have already been able to share evidence about the scale and drivers of poverty in the UK and influence for positive change.
Why I support Trussell
People’s Postcode Lottery
People’s Postcode Lottery’s commitment to our work is deeply appreciated. They have supported us since 2020 and as we broaden our work together, they have used their platforms to raise awareness of our services and the impact we are having across England, Scotland and Wales and we are very grateful to have their truly supportive partnership to rely on.
Donations Acceptance Policy
Our work towards ending hunger is only possible thanks to the support of a wide range of partners and supporters. Our Donations Acceptance Policy is in line with fundraising regulations and Charity Commission guidance.
Please note, we are unable to accept donations that are linked to arms, tobacco or pornography industries. For more information about our partnerships and our due diligence process, please email philanthropy@trussell.org.uk.