Harry Coombes, Copywriter

Winter can often feel like a slog. It's a time when supporting those in need has never been more crucial and mental health is at a low. And a time when fundraising is harder to kickstart but could make all the difference. Coronavirus has made tens of thousands more people reliant on food banks and put limits on what we can do for support. But we can’t stop now.

Fundraising is a fantastic tool for firing up the public into supporting food banks. And it can be a stimulating and rewarding way to counteract any winter blues. So, why not take a two-birds-one-stone approach?

It can be hard to come up with an inspiring fundraising idea, let alone one limited by Covid restrictions. But you don’t have to invent one to get involved. Below are some fresh approaches and examples to inspire you. And no scale is too small; any amount of help is meaningful and hugely appreciated. Not just by us, but by the people who depend on the compassion of others to not go hungry each week.

1. Organise an online "car boot" sale

Got a load of unwanted clothes, books, furniture or other household items taking up space? But can’t open a car boot sale to avoid the spread of coronavirus? Why not sell these items on Facebook or other online marketplaces, and donate a portion of the proceeds to us?

Simply create a Facebook event to advertise your online sale to friends and start posting the items... or even go live on the day of the sale! There are many other websites and apps where you can sell your second-hand belongings such as Gumtree, Depop, Shpock and, of course, eBay.

2. Help the elderly with shopping

Elderly people are particularly at risk to Coronavirus. Which makes places like supermarkets potentially dangerous. If you know an elderly person who could benefit from having their shopping done for them, why not offer to help them out for a small fee? And let them know the money will be going towards feeding those in need.

3. Sell your recipes

Got a few homemade recipes you want to share? Compiling a list of and selling them is the perfect way to share and benefit a good cause. This is exactly what ‘The Food Fighters’ are launching; a full recipe book of sustainable recipes with all proceeds going to Bankuet! Check them out on Instagram here.

4. Deliver homecooked meals or sell homemade condiments

In the spirit of feeding people, if you’re any good at making meals, you could cook and deliver to your friends and family like Seema:

“The Hot Korean Sesame Wings & Hot Korean Sesame Paneer were the most popular, but I also sold some Karahi Chicken Curry, Biryani and Enchiladas!”

Stretch your culinary skills further by making and selling homemade condiments. Jams, pestos, or cranberry sauce for something more seasonal, are all viable options. Gardening is known to be good for our mental health, so grow what you can at home. Sell to your local community and feed people twice over by giving the proceeds to Bankuet.

5. Design your own jewellery and t-shirts

Have you got a skill for creating fashion? Put it to use by making handmade items to raise funds.

‘Ara The Altar’ creates adornments from 100% recycled materials and 10% of the profits go to Bankuet. Mary from @Marybensonlondon also donates £5 of each purchase of her ethically made print clothing, accessories and furnishings. Why not follow in their footsteps?

6. Release your inner artist

Got excess creativity this lockdown? Painting is a great way to destress, whilst also helping to spruce up a wall or room. Know of any photogenic pets you could capture in a portrait? Do you have an eye for natural landscapes? Or perhaps a knack for jolly festive cards? Help us help others by selling artworks to raise funds.

7. Create an experience on Zoom

If none of the above sound like your thing, don’t stress. Zoom always offers the opportunity for you to share any experience you can give, where your own creativity is the only limit. Be it an escape room experience, tutorial on throwing a dinner party or virtual story time. Whatever your skill is, you can share it with someone looking to learn or be entertained. And help turn digital fundraising into tangible aid for those in need.

Bankuet helps get food banks what they need, when they need it. Find out more about Bankuet Fundraising Campaigns and join our efforts in feeding more people.