Houghton-le-Spring company donates over 36,000 meals and hygiene products nationwide

A Houghton-le-Spring business has made a significant impact in tackling food insecurity by donating around 36,700 meals and essential hygiene products over the past year. The initiative, led by Pacifica, involved an employee-driven foodbank project and a partnership with the national food redistribution charity, FareShare.

As part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, the company encouraged staff to nominate local foodbanks to receive 200-item donations.

Four foodbanks were randomly selected each month, resulting in 10,000 items being distributed to 32 foodbanks across the UK. Employees were also encouraged to deliver the donations personally, fostering stronger connections with local communities.

In addition, Pacifica’s collaboration with FareShare helped deliver 30,000 meals in the same period. FareShare works with the food industry to redistribute surplus food to a network of 8,500 charities and community groups across the UK.

Holly Meredith (left), Jordan Holmes (centre) and Vikki Killeen (right) volunteering at the foodbankplaceholder image
Holly Meredith (left), Jordan Holmes (centre) and Vikki Killeen (right) volunteering at the foodbank

Kevin Brown, CEO of Pacifica, said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to supporting communities during challenging times.

“Helping communities is a key part of our ESG strategy, and I’m incredibly proud of what our colleagues have achieved over the past year,” he said.

“Their efforts have made a tangible difference in the lives of people facing hardship.”

Employees also volunteered at Sunderland and County Durham Foodbank’s Chester-le-Street distribution centre, assisting in sorting and packaging donations for distribution to 40 foodbanks in the region.

Holly Meredith (left), Jordan Holmes (centre) and Vikki Killeen (right) volunteering at the foodbankplaceholder image
Holly Meredith (left), Jordan Holmes (centre) and Vikki Killeen (right) volunteering at the foodbank

The foodbank network, which includes community centres, church halls, and warm spaces, experienced its busiest year in 2023, supporting over 35,000 people.

“Our partnership with Sunderland and County Durham Foodbank has highlighted the vital work they do,”

Kevin added. “Colleagues have embraced the opportunity to volunteer with extraordinary commitment and compassion, showing how businesses can have a positive impact on the communities they serve.”

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