Coventry Foodbank is calling on members of the public to participate in The Great Coventry Foodbankathon, an annual event designed to raise awareness and essential funds for the charity during a period of heightened need. This year, the event spans a full week of fundraising and awareness activities, culminating in a 34-kilometer walking route that stops at all 15 foodbank centres across the city, as well as the central distribution hub.
The walk begins at St Catherine's Church in Stoke Aldermoor and concludes at St Stephen's Church in Canley. Participants can choose from various options: a shorter walk between two or more centres, the full 34km traditional route, or 'The Loop'—a 42km marathon-distance walk that starts and ends at the same foodbank centre. Individuals and businesses are also encouraged to sponsor the Foodbankathon, which takes place on Saturday, May 30, with the goal of raising substantial funds to support the foodbank's operations.
New Family Treasure Hunt
This year, the charity has introduced a free Foodbankathon Family Treasure Hunt, running throughout the week. Participants can use their smartphones to discover hidden treasures along the route while exploring the city. For more information or to register, visit coventryfoodbank.org.uk/treasurehunt.
Walk Led by Founder
The walking team will be led by Foodbank founder Canon Gavin Kibble MBE. He commented: "We are facing unprecedented times as the cost of keeping Coventry Foodbank running presents an increasing financial challenge. The Foodbankathon is a crucial event to raise awareness and vital funds. With food prices projected to be 50% higher by November compared to the start of the cost-of-living crisis in 2021, it is unsurprising that donations have decreased while demand for our services has risen. This is not a sustainable position for the foodbank, so we are asking the public to donate food and money so we can help families struggling to put food on the table."
Growing Need
Last year, more than 22,000 people in Coventry required foodbank assistance. The ongoing cost-of-living squeeze means hundreds of people in the city rely on foodbank services each week. Since its founding 15 years ago, the foodbank has provided food to over 250,000 individuals. Gavin added: "If you do not wish to take part or cannot give money, you can still help by raising awareness of the Foodbankathon. On the day, you are welcome to come and cheer on those doing the walk."
Sponsorship and Route Details
Businesses interested in sponsoring The Great Coventry Foodbankathon can contact fundraising@coventryfoodbank.org.uk. The route includes the following locations: St Catherine's Church (Stoke Aldermoor), St John the Divine Church (Willenhall), The Halo Centre (Binley), Walsgrave Baptist Church, Coventry City Mission, St Laurence's Church, Coventry Building Society Arena, Holbrooks Evangelical Church, St Francis of Assisi Church, Foleshill Baptist Church, RCCG Holy Ghost Zone, Christian Life Ministries, Coventry Cathedral, Authentic Church (Lamb Street), Queens Road Baptist Church Centre, Allesley Park Evangelical Church, Our Lady of The Assumption RC Church (Aldermans Green), and St Stephen's Church (Canley). Participants can choose their own start time, and route maps are available for download from the website. More information about taking part or donating can be found at https://coventryfoodbank.org.uk/foodbankathon/. Please note that the suggested route uses public roads, and participants are responsible for their own safety. Coventry Foodbank cannot bear any responsibility for participant safety.
