Christmas reverse advent calendar launched by food bank.

The food bank reflects on the fact that Christmas can be an extremely difficult time for those that are struggling, hoping that this reverse advent calendar may brighten up some people’s festivities.

The boxes are distributed to families that are referred to the food bank by schools, family centres and social services.

Similar to a regular advent calendar, every day is dedicated to a singular item, but instead of keeping them you are donating to those in need.

Even though the scheme has already started, there's still time to get involved as it runs until November 24,

There’s a range of items to collect and return to the food bank.

The food bank has provided a list of the suggested different items stated in the image below.

Christchurch Food Bank reverse advent calendar 2024 (Image: Christchurch Food Bank)

Christchurch Food bank manager, Tracy Blick said that: “This is a lovely thing to do for both the people and families who make them up, and for us giving them out to families.”

Once you have selected all the items, the aim is to return them either on or before December 1, to the Christchurch Foodbank at St Joseph’s Old Chapel on Purewell Road.

The food bank states that you are allowed to substitute items and add extras if you wish, but they are against the inclusion of nuts or alcohol.

Alongside the reverse advent calendar, the food bank also runs a 'turkey scheme'. 

Tracy explains this to be a: "full Christmas dinner tray scheme to help those in our communities who struggle to afford or cook a Christmas dinner."

Tracy states how: “Christchurch Food bank is more than just food, we are about walking with them and empowering them on their journey out of crisis.”