Ahead of Saturday’s match against Derby County at St. James’ Park, volunteers will be manning a collection point at the Gallowgate End of the stadium from 1pm until kick-off for supporters to drop off donations.
All donated items will go to Newcastle West End Foodbank, which is the largest and most in-demand of its kind in the UK and provides emergency food parcels to vulnerable local people across Tyneside.
A spokesman for the supporter-led campaign, said: “Having been inspired by food banks set up by other fans around the country, we have been working to set up a similar initiative here in Newcastle.
“We believe this is a classic example of club and fans supporting the local community in times of need.
“The support of fans bringing produce to the drop off station on match days will be an enormous help to those who use the food bank.”
Supporters are being encouraged to bring along any of the following items:
While offering emergency food assistance to people in need is its primary aim, the Newcastle West End Foodbank also aims to change the lives of its dependents by finding solutions to underlying social problems.
Mike Nixon from Newcastle West End Foodbank, said “In the majority of cases, we are able to support people in overcoming their food crisis after three visits.
“For those in need of further support, and recognising the unsustainability of handing out food parcels on a regular basis, we have introduced what we call our Integration Project.
“Through the project, we work in partnership with specialist agencies to help people overcome the often complex underlying problems that have led to them needing the food bank, such as: household debt, lack of employment, risk of homelessness, addiction and not claiming full benefit entitlements.
"Our approach has proved successful in helping people break their dependency on the foodbank, re-engage with employment support and encourage social integration within the community.
“We really appreciate the work done to set this initiative up on match days and thank Newcastle United and their supporters for their support”.
To find out more about the Newcastle West End Foodbank, please visit newcastlewestend.foodbank.org.uk.
