We are supporting Coningsby foodbank bringing hope to families this Christmas
A volunteer-led foodbank serving Coningsby and the surrounding area will be able to support 10 local families this Christmas thanks to a donation we have made.
Destiny Outreach Coningsby was set up in 2020 by Richard Archer and his wife, who began distributing food parcels from their garage during the pandemic. As demand grew, Richard secured alternative space to store and organise donations and relies on community support for its donations and to keep the project running.
The foodbank provides emergency food parcels for individuals and families within a five mile radius of Coningsby, working on a referral only basis through recognised agencies such as Universal Credit and the Department for Work and Pensions. Each parcel contains enough food to last for three days, with increased need seen during school holidays.
Richard and fellow volunteer Rob Taylor, who also works at RAF Coningsby, run the service in their own time and use their personal vehicles to deliver and collect donations. They regularly distribute flyers to RAF personnel both on and off base, asking for contributions, which are then collected from doorsteps. Support also comes from the local Co-op stores in Coningsby and Tattershall, as well as donations from local schools and the wider community.
This year, we provided a £500 donation in the form of Tesco vouchers as part of our Christmas Kindness campaign. The vouchers will help Richard and Rob buy the most suitable food items for those most in need.
Richard Archer said: “We’ve seen first hand how a simple food parcel can lift a huge weight for people going through a tough time. This donation from Platform means we can help 10 families this Christmas, not just with food but with a bit of hope. We’re so grateful to everyone who supports the work we do.”
Samantha Smith, our Community Engagement Officer said: “Richard and Rob are a fantastic example of the power of grassroots community action. Their time energy and compassion are making a real difference locally. We’re proud to support Destiny Outreach and help bring a bit of warmth and dignity to families this winter.”
Destiny Outreach currently supports around 50 families and individuals across the year, with some one off referrals and others needing more regular help. The team continues welcome donations and referrals throughout the year.
Photo caption : l to r, Samantha Smith, Community Engagement Officer, Platform Housing Group, Robert Taylor, Destiny Outreach Coningsby Volunteer/Sgt Avionics Battle of Britain Memorial Flight and Richard Archer, Destiny Outreach Coningsby Charity Lead/Sgt Avionics Typhoon Mission Data Team