Park Holidays UK reverses Christmas to boost food banks

Park Holidays UK mascot Loopy launches the food bank collection centre at the company’s Bexhill HQ

PARK HOLIDAYS UK is urging its staff and custo start their Christmas countdown early this year – and help put festive food on the tables of people in poverty.

The company has published a “reverse advent calendar” which, instead of delivering a daily treat, suggests an item which will be welcomed by a local food bank.

By the end of the 30 days, those taking part will have gathered a generous basketful of items ranging from instant coffee, pasta and biscuits to tinned fruit and, of course, mince pies.

The donations can then be taken to those who are most in need.

Park Holidays UK is making the calendar available to its 31 holiday parks.

Custor Tony Clish

“This has been a challenging year for everyone, but especially so for those who are struggling tor Tony Clish.

“That’s why we decided to make it all about giving rather than receiving.

“Staff at our headquarters will be taking part, and we’ve already had some great reaction from customers who have come on board with the idea.

“Getting to those who are currently struggling in local communities.

“Whether you gift an item hiding at the back of your cupboard, or add a product too little,” added Mr Clish.

The calendar, featuring the park group’s cheeky mascots, also comes with details about The Trussell Trust which supports a nationwide network of 1,200 foodbanks.

Families taking part in the calendar countdown challenge can go online to where the donations can be taken.

The Trussell Trust’s latest research suggests that there will be a 61% increase in food parcels needed across its foodbanks this winter, compared with last year.

More information and a link to the downloadable calendar is available o, Park Holidays UK’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/parkholidaysuk

Or to locate a local foodbank anywhere in the UK, visit www.trusselltrust.org

The calendar can be downloaded from Park Holidays UK and started any time in the run-up to Christmas