Tesco Ireland has announced the return of its annual Stronger Starts Christmas Food Collection, calling on customers across Galway to help support families facing food insecurity this festive season.
This year’s collection will run from Friday, December 5, to Sunday, December 7, with donation trolleys stationed at Tesco stores in Oranmore, Ballinasloe, Headford Superstore, Athenry, Knocknacarra, Tuam, Ballybane, Father Griffin Road, and Galway Shopping Centre.
Last year, shoppers in Galway contributed almost €24,700 worth of food through the initiative.
Since the Christmas Food Collection began in 2013, Tesco and its customers have donated almost €2.9 million worth of food, equivalent to more than 2.3 million meals for households in need across Ireland. The donations are distributed through a nationwide network of Family Resource Centres, FoodCloud, and other voluntary groups.
Shoppers are encouraged to donate just one non-perishable food item, such as porridge, pasta, rice, or canned goods. Volunteers from local organisations will be on hand throughout the weekend to assist with contributions.
As an added boost, Tesco will top up all customer donations by 20 per cent, helping to maximise the support provided to vulnerable families at a time when demand typically increases.
Last Christmas alone, more than €320,000 worth of food was donated nationwide, with a further €120,000 contributed during Tesco’s Summer Food Collection earlier this year.
Tesco Ireland’s Communications Director, Rosemary Garth, highlighted the importance of the initiative:
“The Christmas period can intensify food insecurity for families, particularly children who rely on school supports. Through our Stronger Starts Christmas Food Collection and continued investment in Stronger Starts, Tesco remains committed to playing a meaningful role in improving the wellbeing of children and families across the country.”
