East Durham Trust

East Durham Trust has stepped in to support local families and individuals who may have otherwise gone hungry with the provision of emergency food parcels for those in a crisis situation.

Redundancies, benefit cuts and a rise of the cost of living, all spell disaster to many people, with increasing numbers finding themselves in financial dire straits, having to choose between putting food on the table or pay for other essentials such as rent or heating bills.

The Food Emergency East Durham (FEED) Project has already seen over 1000 food parcels distributed via a network of volunteers to those in crisis situations, providing a much needed  life line to more than 600 individuals and 400 vulnerable families in its initial phase.  The project was supported in its first stages by Awards for All and County Durham NHS, with additional aid from generous public donations.

Collection boxes are springing up across East Durham in many central community locations. Those who can spare even a small contribution are encouraged to donate food items such as tinned beans, spaghetti, fruit or vegetable, meat or fish or desserts, dried pasta, rice, cereals or other items which are none perishable. All items collected by donation will boost further items purchased through the Fair Share scheme.   

East Durham Trust have recruited volunteers to act as FEED Advocates. After receiving relevant training, these Advocates are accredited to issue emergency food parcels to those identified as in need. Volunteers also collect the food donations from collection points, make food parcels and then distribute where necessary.

You can read real life case studies about the various circumstances which emergency food parcels have been required by downloading the FEED interim report.

Malcolm Fallow, Chief Executive of East Durham Trust said “Anyone, through no fault of their own, can find them self in an unexpected crisis situation. Benefit cuts, redundancies, an unexpected bill or sudden ill health can all mean than a households cash flow is seriously affected. These parcels are a response to these crisis situations. We have been overwhelmed at the number of people who have come forward with donations or offers of support. Maybe community spirit isn’t as dead as we thought!”

For more information contact East Durham Trust on 0191 5693511 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it