Rail operator brings festive cheer to food charity

East Midlands Railway is bringing some festive cheer to people in Derby struggling to put food on their tables due to the cost-of-living crisis.

In the run up to Christmas, the rail operator’s staff are supporting several charities across its network – including Reach Community Grocers, which is part of Reach Events.

EMR staff are contributing items to assemble hampers filled with essential goods and thoughtful treats, which will be distributed by Reach to its members just in time for the festive season.

The hampers will include a variety of items, from Christmas dinner essentials to toiletries, providing a mix of practical support and seasonal treats.

Reach Community Grocers, based on Pride Park, helps families and individuals who are struggling to feed themselves.

Families who sign up to be members gain the dignity of choosing and purchasing their shopping for a fraction of the cost of a supermarket.

Additionally, much of the food is sourced from surplus supermarket supplies, resulting in thousands of tonnes of food saved from being wasted each year.

Adjacent to the shop is a new Community Hub, where members can access free support and courses, such as budgeting, healthy cooking, and employment skills.

Clare Hawksworth, lead revenue optimisation manager, was part of the team at EMR that organised the donation.

She said: “We’re delighted to be working with Reach Community Grocers to help make the season a little brighter for families who might need a helping hand in Derby.

“This initiative is a wonderful way for us to support our local community.”

Gillian Davel, Reach Community Grocers manager, said: “We are so proud to be able to partner with EMR to bring some festive cheer to Derby.

“What a wonderful time of year to show kindness and pay it forward to someone who needs it most. This is the Christmas story in action.”