The coronavirus crisis has had a devastating effect on the economy and the local community. A staggering 750,000 families are estimated to have been deprived of an income. Job losses and isolation pose additional challenges to the wellbeing of a community that was already struggling. Hunger should not be the hallmark of a leading economy like the UK.

That’s why we have decided to take action with your help, to support families who have, due to these exceptional times, found themselves at risk. We are a group of Year 12s at King Edward’s School, Birmingham. We realise how fortunate we are as a school community, able to go to the school we go to, and we recognise the importance of doing something to support those who are less fortunate than ourselves.

Over lockdown, the Selly Oak Covid-19 Response has provided vital supplies to those in need. The students at the University of Birmingham behind the service have proven invaluable to families without any other form of support.

In collaboration with Selly Oak Covid-19 Response, we have been running our own food bank to further help our local community. We have been very fortunate to have the full support of our school in this venture. We have already supplied about a hundred parcels over the last four weeks. We are unable to fully cater to the demand and have unfortunately had to turn people away.

And that’s why we both need your help to continue with this work. Without your donations and support, this project will not be able continue to reach those who really need it. All of you can play a part in this.

Together, we can beat this virus and hunger.

Thank you for all your support and we hope that you will join us.

Kind regards,

The King Edward's School Food Bank Team