GIVE FOOD

GIVE FOOD is a UK-based charity that focuses on addressing food insecurity by using data to highlight both local and structural issues. The charity provides tools and resources to help alleviate these problems. It operates a national public database of food banks, tracking their needs in real-time to ensure timely and effective donations.

History and Mission

GIVE FOOD became a registered charity in February 2020, shortly before the UK entered lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenging circumstances, the charity has worked with numerous local organizations to deliver essential supplies to those in need. For instance, during the pandemic, GIVE FOOD delivered 1.2 million items of personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure the safety of food bank operations and the communities they serve.

The charity's mission is based on the principle that food banks should not be necessary in the UK. However, it acknowledges the current need and strives to support local organizations addressing immediate food insecurities.

Operations and Transparency

GIVE FOOD's operations are open-source and transparent, making almost all of its code, data, and financial accounts available for public viewing. This transparency allows for accountability and trust within the community.

Tools and Services

The charity offers several tools and services to combat food insecurity:

• Food Bank Database: It maintains a comprehensive and real-time database of food banks across the UK, allowing users to find local food banks, donate items, volunteer, or take political action by contacting their Member of Parliament.
• Data for Research and Journalism: GIVE FOOD provides data to researchers and journalists, particularly data journalists, to inform stories about food poverty and support further research in the field.
• Community Engagement: The charity empowers individuals to engage with food poverty causes by facilitating easy communication with local representatives and food banks.

Impact

Since its inception, GIVE FOOD has worked with hundreds of local organizations to deliver hundreds of tonnes of much-needed supplies. Its efforts have significantly supported communities nationwide, focusing on both immediate relief and long-term solutions to food insecurity.

[1] https://www.givefood.org.uk/about-us/ [2] https://www.givefood.org.uk [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/5147019/charity-overview [4] https://www.bankuet.co.uk [5] https://www.ukharvest.org.uk/support-donate