Tesco and Aldi take a stand against food poverty

Earlier today, Tesco highlighted it’s support for Marcus Rashford’s cause whilst also outlining it’s own ambitions to support communities in need. They have outlined how low-income families can benefit from ‘Healthy Start’ coupons that can be used in any Tesco store to claim free milk, fresh, frozen and tinned fruit and vegetables; along with fresh, dried, and tinned pulses. They have also announced free school meal vouchers that will be accepted in all stores with those who are recipients of the vouchers being able to claim them during school holidays as well.  

Jason Tarry, Tesco UK and ROI CEO said: “Many families, particularly those with young children, are facing hardship as a result of the pandemic and finding it hard to put food on the table. By working together with our partners we can help get healthy, nutritious food to those who need it. We therefore remain 100% committed to the Food Poverty Taskforce and to our charity partners who provide food banks and community groups with vital supplies.” 

Aldi have also shown their support for the Taskforce by pledging 10 million meals to families in need. They are working with Neighbourly who link businesses and charitable organisations in local communities in order to supply those in need with the meals they require. Aldi already donate it’s surplus food to Neighbourly but are set to increase their involvement by an astonishing figure of 10 million meals for low-income families and those in need.  

Neighbourly CEO, Steve Butterworth said:  “We are thrilled to be working with Aldi to further its commitment to supporting local communities and help make a dent in the UK’s hunger epidemic. I know first-hand the vast number of children that rely on our local charity partners in order to go to bed without an empty stomach, and this commitment will go a long way for the families who are struggling to put food on the table.” 

According to Aldi, the statistics surrounding food poverty in the UK is indicative of the level of response from Aldi. New research has shown that 96% of children that are supported by charities are missing meals at least once a week; 42% going without food three times a week; and 14% of children missing a meal every single day. Charities also believe that the demand for food provision has increased by as much as 71% in the past six months.