More than 8.4 million people in the UK are living in deep poverty, struggling to afford everyday essentials including food. At the same time over 6.7 million tonnes of food goes to waste every year.

Across Leicestershire alone 73,893 children are growing up in poverty, food insecurity and inadequate housing. That's 73,893 children who begin life disadvantaged and often go without food, clothing or basic supplies.

To help fight this and to raise funds to make a substantial difference in the lives of the most vulnerable people in Leicestershire, the Bishop of Leicester has appointed FareShare Midlands as the beneficiary charity of the Bishops Lent Appeal 2022.

We are proud that this year, the Bishops Lent Appeal will raise money to benefit local people suffering from food inequality, homelessness, job insecurity and poverty in Leicestershire. Every £1 donated will help to create 4 meals for disadvantaged men, women and children. Funds donated will also support those signed up to our employability programmes to gain skills, training and support to help them find work for the first time or after a long absence from the workplace.

Our vision at FareShare Midlands is a region where no-one goes hungry when there is food being wasted, no child goes to school on an empty stomach, and where vulnerable people are supported to join or re-join the workforce.

At this challenging time, FareShare Midlands truly needs your Lent Appeal donations. Here is how your money can help:

- £30 helps provide 120 meals for homeless people

- £50 helps provide 200 meals at a day centre supporting elderly people and tackling isolation and loneliness

- £150 helps provide 600 meals for families using drop in centres or food banks

- £450 helps provide 18,000 meals and deliver a van full of food to 6 community groups

If you would like to donate by cheque, please post made payable to 'FareShare Midlands' to Bishops Lent Appeal Leicestershire, FareShare Midlands, 10 Wilson Road, Leicester, LE18 4TP