BANKTHEFOOD is a UK-based nonprofit organisation and registered charity (Charity number 1194167) dedicated to alleviating food poverty by connecting individuals with local food banks through a free mobile application. The charity's mission is to ensure that food banks receive exactly the items they need rather than generic donations, thereby optimizing support for people experiencing financial hardship across the United Kingdom[2][3].

History and Mission

Founded with the aim of reducing food insecurity, BANKTHEFOOD leverages technology for social good. Since its launch in 2021, the organisation has rapidly grown in popularity, with over 48,000 users employing its app to donate food items and toiletries to both Trussell Trust and independent food banks throughout the UK[1]. By facilitating targeted donations, the charity helps food banks address specific shortages and better serve their communities in need.

The BanktheFood App

The core tool of BANKTHEFOOD is its free app, which links shoppers with local supermarkets and food banks. The app allows users to:

• Identify the most urgently needed items for their selected food bank.
• Receive notifications when near supermarkets to conveniently purchase and donate items.
• Access a postcode-based search to find local food banks and view their specific needs.
• Locate designated drop-off points for donations.

This technology-driven approach enables donors to contribute in a way that fits their daily routines while maximizing the impact of their donations[2][5].

Partnerships and Impact

BANKTHEFOOD has partnered with The Trussell Trust, a major network of food banks, to enhance the effectiveness of food donations. This collaboration helps ensure that donated items match the demands of local food banks, improving the distribution of resources for those facing food poverty[1].

Emma Spring, co-founder of BANKTHEFOOD, has emphasized that the partnership with The Trussell Trust allows the charity to reach more people in need and strengthen support for partner food banks and charities. Similarly, Emma Revie, CEO of The Trussell Trust, has noted that the app facilitates easier, targeted donations, helping food banks cope with increased demand and insufficient donations[1].

Organisation and Operations

BANKTHEFOOD is a small, volunteer-led charity that relies heavily on local knowledge and community engagement to expand its reach and effectiveness. Its app incorporates publicly available data from sources such as Givefood, The Trussell Trust, and the Independent Food Aid Network (IFAN), enabling users to access up-to-date information about food bank needs even if those food banks have not formally registered with the charity[5].

Through its innovative use of technology and community partnerships, BANKTHEFOOD continues to play a vital role in supporting food banks and addressing food insecurity in the UK.

Note: Specific contact details have been excluded in line with the requested format.

[1] https://www.bankthefood.org/media/ [2] https://www.bankthefood.org [3] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1194167&subid=0 [4] https://www.instagram.com/bankthefood/p/DG53Nmbx-2e/ [5] https://bankthefood.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/assets/pdf/FAQs.pdf