London people who have helped to alleviate poverty and reduce food waste have been thanked by Tesco as part of special landmark celebrations.
The supermarket chain has reached the milestone of donating 220 million meals to those in need through its Community Food Connection programme with the food charity FareShare.
To commemorate the occasion, London is paying tribute to the volunteers, community groups and Tesco colleagues who have contributed to the success of the partnership.
Over the years, the partnership has seen London donate 9,016,686.56 meals.
Matthew Barnes, UK CEO of Tesco, said: “Tesco is immensely proud of its partnership with FareShare and the fantastic achievement of donating 220 million meals over the last 12 years.
“None of this could have been done without the passion, determination and drive of the countless people in places such as London have contributed to it, and it is to them today that we say a big thank you.
“But the hard work doesn’t stop here. While this is a momentous milestone, we remain committed to partnering with FareShare as we work towards our goal of halving food waste and getting more good food to people.”
One of the groups that has benefited from the Community Food Connection scheme is Chabad Ilford, which has been actively involved in the campaign for eight years.
Graham Nygate, Food Co-ordinator at Chabad Ilford, said: “In the eight years we have been working with FareShare and Tesco, we have built up the most incredible personal relationships. So much so, that a couple of weeks ago we had a text from one of the Tesco Managers asking if we would like brand new soft toys. Of course we said “yes”. They were distributed to families in need as well as children’s wards of the local hospitals and Great Ormond Street.”
Now in its 12th year, Tesco’s partnership with FareShare sees surplus food from Tesco stores and distribution centres donated to FareShare’s network of charities, community groups and food banks, bringing people together to help alleviate poverty and reduce food waste.
George Wright, CEO of FareShare, said: “FareShare has worked with Tesco since 2012 to help alleviate poverty in the UK by ensuring surplus food within its supply chain is used to feed people and doesn’t end up as waste. Quite simply, FareShare could not do what we do without Tesco’s incredible support.
“The milestone of 220 million meals donated is a testament to all those involved in our partnership with Tesco. These 220 million meals have supported causes across the UK, from local community groups, charities and food banks helping those who need it most.”
