A SUPERMARKET has launched a new £25,000 fund to help foodbanks across Swindon provide essential support to those in need.

Co-op Midcounties is calling on members, customers and the wider community to donate to this fund in order to help the most vulnerable access food during the coronavirus pandemic.

Chief executive of Co-op Midcounties Phil Ponsonby said: “So many people and organisations have been affected in all kinds of different ways by this pandemic, and foodbanks are certainly among the hardest hit.

“Since the outbreak, foodbanks have faced a funding crisis while also seeing foodbank stock availability reduce significantly.

“As a society, we have been encouraging our members and customers to support their local foodbanks through prominent promotion in store. But we feel now is the time to go further.

“I know many people find themselves in challenging financial situations themselves right now but, those that are able, I’m asking for you to pull together, give what you can to support your foodbanks and ensure – among everything else happening around us – no one goes hungry.”

To donate to the foodbank fund visit: mid.coop/FoodbankDonation