Satvir Kaur supports the Echo's Boost the Bank campaign

Leader of Southampton City Council, Satvir Kaur, and Southampton Itchen MP, Royston Smith have both endorsed the Boost the Bank campaign.

We are working in partnership with Southampton City Mission this Christmas to boost donations as demand for its food banks increase.

The mission has a network of food banks across the city with hundreds of people needing its services during the festive period and the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

Together with Southampton City Mission, the Echo is urging readers to donate food to any of the 13 drop-off points across the city.

Cllr Kaur said: “I speak to many individuals and families across Southampton struggling with this national cost of living crisis.

“The festive season is particularly challenging for them a variety of reasons, with some families having to decide between heating and eating.

“It’s why it’s so important we continue to do what we do best and be there for each other.”

Those who wish to can support the campaign by donating items at four Sainsbury's stores, three Co-Ops, two Lidl’s, Asda, NISA Local, Aldi, and Little Waitrose – the full list can be found below.

The council leader added: “The Daily Echo’s Boost the Bank Campaign is a great way to do this, by supporting our city’s amazing food distribution network, that works to ensure no one goes hungry.

“Whether its volunteering, donating, or checking in on loved ones and neighbours. It all makes a difference.

“Of course, to make a lasting difference we need wider national issues resolved, like better pay, lower household bills and decent housing.

“However, in the meantime, when people in our city need support here and now, it’s great to see Southampton coming together.” 

Southampton Itchen MP Royston Smith also threw his support behind the campaign.

Royston Smith MP

He told the Echo: “I support the hard work of The Southampton City Mission who help many people who are struggling with rising costs and those less fortunate. 

“It is concerning to hear that there is a rise in the use of foodbanks, and I think inflation and price rises have made it difficult for many people in Southampton. 

“I am pleased that the Government has recently announced new ways of supporting those who need it most by increasing the minimum wage, pensions, and benefits to help alleviate the pressures of the cost of living.”

Donations can be submitted at the following locations:

Sainsbury’s – Shirley

Sainsbury’s – Hedge End

Sainsbury’s – Lordshill

Sainsbury’s – Portswood

Lidl – Nursling

Lidl – Shirley

Asda – The Marlands

The Co-Op – Archers Road

The Co-Op – Mayflower Halls

The Co-Op – Sholing

Aldi – Millbrook

Nisa Local – Maybush

Little Waitrose – John Lewis