Sainsbury's has partnered with Comic Relief to tackle the growing issue of child hunger across the UK. New research reveals that more than one in six parents have had to put their children to bed hungry or without enough food at least once a week over the past year. The survey, commissioned by the supermarket and the charity, highlights the devastating reality faced by many families struggling to access or afford food.
Key Findings from the Research
The study found that 18 percent of parents surveyed experienced this heartbreaking situation. Additionally, over a quarter (26 percent) of parents admitted to pretending there is more food in the house than there actually is to avoid upsetting their children. A further 32 percent have skipped meals themselves so that their children could eat.
£30 Million Fundraising Goal
In response, Sainsbury's and Comic Relief have launched a campaign to raise £30 million over the next five years. This money will provide millions of meals for children and families. Sainsbury's will match all donations made in its stores and online between July 1 and August 31, 2026. The funds will support the supermarket's ambition to donate the equivalent of 120 million meals by the end of 2030.
Since 2022, Sainsbury's has already donated the equivalent of 60 million meals through its partnership with Comic Relief. The new target aims to double that amount.
Support for Local Organizations
The donations will be distributed to organizations across the UK that help children and families access nutritious food. This includes food clubs, after-school dinners, and meals during school holidays.
Campaign Film and Celebrity Involvement
As part of the "Let's Put Hunger to Bed" campaign, a new film has been released. Written by Comic Relief co-founder Richard Curtis and voiced by actress Jodie Whittaker, the film is inspired by real-life experiences of families and told from a child's perspective.
CEO Statement
Simon Roberts, chief executive of Sainsbury's, said: "No child should go to bed hungry, yet today this is the reality facing far too many families across the UK. Building on our decades-long partnership with Comic Relief, we're setting a bold new ambition to change this by raising £30 million for Comic Relief by 2030, helping us to reach a total of 120 million meals donated to children and families across the UK since 2022."
He added: "We're stepping up our fundraising ambitions, and this summer we'll be matching every pound raised by our colleagues and customers. These vital funds will support Comic Relief to drive action across industry initiatives that will help improve children's health, support families and make sure everyone has the support systems they need. Good food is something everyone should be able to access. We need to work harder than ever to make this a reality."
