Entrepreneur launches virtual Christmas hampers to feed less fortunate

For Day 7 of Bdaily’s 12 Days of Christmas News, we look to Guildford based entrepreneur and founder of FreeMyMeal, who is aiming to ensure that no family gets left unfed this Christmas with a new virtual Christmas hamper initiative.

The initiative offers struggling families free meals provided by people in their local area, by connecting those in need with those able to cook or provide meals for others.

This year, the business has launched virtual Christmas hampers for those in need in the run-up to Christmas, described as the “perfect gift to give for anyone looking to do something kind for others after a long and tough year for many people”.

The initiative comes as millions of families continue to face financial difficulties in the wake of the pandemic, with the ONS reporting households are now £20 worse off per week due to a 4.2 per cent rise in the cost of living.

As a single mum, Hayley Steere founded FreeMyMeal during lockdown to help adults and children who may be in need of a meal but are reluctant to ask for help.

The idea first launched as a Facebook group and inspired hundreds of new members within the first few days online, which led Hayley to launch her website, with support from GoDaddy. Since setting up the website, donors can now get involved more easily, by donating meals and vouchers online.

Ben Law, head of UK and Ireland at GoDaddy said: “We’re proud to be supporting small businesses like Hayley’s, and helping her to spread the word for her Christmas initiative to help those in need”.

“As we approach Christmas and reunite with loved ones, we hope Hayley’s story inspires others to join her in helping others”.

Hayley has already inspired over 30,000 members across the UK and overseas and, through the launch of the Virtual Christmas Hampers, Hayley is aiming to change Christmas for a further 500 families in need before Christmas Eve, helping them to celebrate with food they may not otherwise get to enjoy.