FOODBANKS are calling for donations of everyday essentials this summer as families face extra pressure during the school holidays.

To help shoppers support their local communities, supermarket Aldi has revealed the products charities say are needed most, making it easier for customers in Merseyside to donate while doing their weekly shop.

According to Aldi's charity partner, Neighbourly, the most in-demand items this summer are:-

• Tinned food
• Toiletries
• Tea/coffee
• Breakfast cereals
• Juices and soft drinks
• UHT milk
• Laundry and cleaning products
• Rice and pasta
• Cooking sauces/oils/condiments
• Pet food
• Baby essentials

 
Customers can donate any of these items at community collection points in Aldi stores nationwide, with all donations distributed to local foodbanks and charities through Aldi's long-standing partnership with Neighbourly.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, said:- “The summer holidays can be a particularly difficult time for many families, with the cost of keeping children fed while they're home from school putting extra pressure on household budgets. We know our customers are incredibly generous and want to support people in their local communities. Even adding just one extra everyday essential to your weekly shop can make a real difference. By sharing the items charities need most, we hope to make it as easy as possible for shoppers to give back while they're in store.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, said:- “When schools break up for summer, many families lose access to the support they rely on during term time, while household food costs often increase. That's why donations of everyday essentials are so important. Thanks to the continued support of Aldi and its customers, local charities can respond to increased demand and help ensure families have access to the support they need throughout the holidays.”

Alongside customer donations, Aldi expects to donate an estimated two million meals to charities, foodbanks and community organisations across the UK this summer through its partnership with Neighbourly, helping ensure good food reaches people instead of going to waste.

As part of its wider commitment to reducing food waste, Aldi also works with Company Shop to redistribute surplus food from its regional distribution centres and partners with The Salvation Army to donate unsold non-food Specialbuys to people in need.

Customers can donate the listed items at community collection points in Aldi stores nationwide.