North East unites to feed families this Christmas

A North East charity is helping households stay fed this Christmas.

Feeding Families, based in Gateshead, has launched its annual Christmas appeal to support more than 44,000 families across the region facing tough choices between food, heating and rent. 

The charity, founded eight years ago by Juliet Sanders from her kitchen table, has grown into a network of volunteers, schools, and businesses working to provide essential supplies with care and dignity.

This year marks a new chapter for the charity, as Juliet prepares to retire and hand over the chief executive role to Wayne Dobson. 

The transition was announced at the launch event, hosted alongside the North East Chamber of Commerce and attended by North East mayor Kim McGuinness, who praised the organisation’s work tackling child poverty.

Mayor McGuinness said: “Imagine not being able to put a Christmas dinner on the table, that’s the reality for too many families in the North East. 

“Feeding Families shows the best of who we are as a region: people who look out for one another. 

“Tackling child poverty isn’t just a matter of social justice; it’s key to our region’s future success.

Juliet added: “We started small, one family helping another and today we’re supporting tens of thousands. 

“Every box tells a story and reminds people that they’re not alone. 

“What we do isn’t just about food; it’s about connection, compassion and community.

“Everyone can do something. 

“Whether that’s a Christmas card, a donation, or a few hours volunteering, every act of kindness counts.” 

For Christmas, Feeding Families will deliver thousands of festive food boxes, including low-cook, halal and rough sleeper packs, alongside recipe kit boxes aimed at bringing families together over nutritious meals. 

The charity is also participating in The Big Give from December 2-9, with donations matched pound for pound, encouraging supporters to donate, fundraise or include messages of hope in each box.

Ashley Carney, events and awards manager at the North East Chamber of Commerce, added: “Feeding Families shows what our region does best, pulling together to make a difference. 

“It’s a powerful reminder of how businesses can use their time and resources to bring real change to local communities.”

For more information, visit www.feedingfamilies.org.uk or follow Feeding Families UK on social media.

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