Families Rally for Foodbank in ‘Food for Thought’ Campaign

Great Yarmouth Charter Academy’s 7L2 and Mrs Larke lead a heartfelt collection helping hundreds this Christmas.

Generosity and community spirit filled the corridors at Charter this week as tutor group 7L2, guided by Mrs Larke, wrapped up the school’s ‘Food for Thought’ foodbank collection. Families from across the academy donated tins, long‑life essentials, festive treats and toiletries—coming together to support hundreds of local families over the Christmas period.

Pictured above: 7L2 with organisers Leah, Sayumdi, Laura and Hasha, celebrating a brilliant community effort.

“We wanted to do something that really makes a difference,” said Leah, Sayumdi, Laura and Hasha. “Christmas should feel hopeful for everyone. Seeing so many families donate—big and small—has been amazing. Thank you to everyone who helped”

The collection was coordinated with the local foodbank, where Jen, the collection manager, praised the impact and timing of the donations:

“This support could not have come at a better time,” said Jen. “December is our busiest month, and these contributions from GYCA will help us prepare parcels for hundreds of households. It’s more than food—it’s dignity, comfort and hope. We’re incredibly grateful to every family, student and staff member who took part.”

Who your donations help: the local Trussell Trust foodbank network

Great Yarmouth Foodbank provides three days’ nutritionally balanced emergency food and support to local people referred in a moment of crisis. It is part of the nationwide Trussell Trust network, which supports communities and churches to open and run foodbanks across the UK. 

Locally, Great Yarmouth Foodbank is facilitated by Great Yarmouth Pathway at Minster Mission (serving NR30 postcodes and Cobholm) and operates on a voucher referral system with weekly sessions—ensuring food and wraparound support reach those who need it most. Across the UK, Trussell Trust foodbanks distributed 2.9 million emergency food parcels in 2024/25, with over 1 million parcels going to children—a reminder of how vital your donations are, especially at Christmas. 

From tutor‑time reminders and posters to drop‑off points and pupils sorting, 7L2 showed what teamwork looks like in action. Staff across the academy encouraged students to bring items that make a practical difference—such as pasta, rice, tinned fruit and vegetables, soup, tea, coffee, biscuits and toiletries—alongside festive favourites to brighten holiday tables.

This campaign reflects the academy’s values—kindness, participation and respect—and the powerful role young people play in their local community. To every family who donated: thank you. Your generosity will be felt far beyond the school gates.

If you missed this collection but would still like to support, the foodbank relies on local donations and volunteers year‑round. Visit Great Yarmouth Foodbank to learn more about donating food, funds, or time. Together, we can keep the spirit of joy, hope and appreciation going into the new year.