Like elsewhere in the UK and Ireland, demand for food banks is growing in Belfast. In the last 5 years, the need for food banks has increased by 128% and organisations including the Trussell Trust, which manages 14 food banks across the city, and the independently-run The People’s Kitchen, that tackle food poverty and homelessness, need more support than ever before.
This project will enlist venues, caterers and event organisers to directly raise funds for local food banks, including The People’s Kitchen. A variety of ways to donate are in place, meaning business events, gala dinners, conferences and meetings can choose a method that suits their event. Funds raised will be used for food parcels, hot food and drinks, homeless outreach and emergency financial support to cover heating bills or essential supplies.
This initiative is part of the City’s long-term commitment to deliver more sustainable events, drive regenerative tourism growth and leave a positive legacy through the power of events.
Since the launch 2 years ago, Visit Belfast, event organisers and the tourism sector have worked together and raised more than £72,000 for food banks and homeless charities, harnessing the power of business events that take place in the city. The initiative has helped to raise awareness about the issues surrounding food waste and food insecurity while positively impacting behaviour change and practices within the events industry. The funds raised have provided the equivalent of 59,016 meals to date.
