'We’ve been blown away by the volume of food donations' - Blackpool foodbank saved from closure
After facing the very real threat of closure, The Big Food Project thanks the Blackpool community for rallying behind them.
Just weeks ago, the charity faced a frightening reality: the very real possibility of having to close its doors in the new year.
The thought of that happening was unthinkable, but the response from the Blackpool community was nothing short of miraculous.
Local residents heard the plea and acted. Donations poured in, messages of support flooded in and volunteers stepped forward in record numbers.
From dropping off food, checking in and lending helping hands, to simply sharing the charity’s message - every act of kindness reminded the team why their work matters so much.
The Big Food Project is also celebrating its growing partnerships with local businesses.
Electricity North West has become the first Gold Partner in the charity’s “26 for 26” campaign, joining ten other business supporters who have helped stabilize the organisation.
These partnerships, alongside the incredible generosity of the community have ensured the charity can continue its vital work.
The outpouring of food donations has been overwhelming. Community groups, companies and individuals have all contributed to keeping shelves stocked for those who need it most.
And the volunteers, described as the heartbeat of the project - have given over 20,000 hours this year alone, helping deliver nearly one million meals.
Thanks to this remarkable community spirit, families, children, and individuals across Blackpool had food on the table this Christmas and into the new year.
While the immediate crisis has passed the charity acknowledges there is still work to do to reach full financial recovery and sustain support throughout 2026 and beyond.
The team at The Big Food Project expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has stood by them.
A spokesperson for The Big Food Project said: “Our local community heard us and you stood by us.
“You donated, shared our message, dropped food off, checked in, volunteered, and reminded us why this work matters. The kindness we’ve felt has been truly overwhelming, and we are so grateful.
“We’ve been blown away by the volume of food donations from companies, community groups and individuals.
“Whilst the immediate crisis has passed, we still have a lot of work to do to reach financial recovery to ensure that we can stay open and support people throughout 2026 and beyond. But we feel so much more positive knowing we have you alongside us.”