Debt Relief
Food Bank Support Leicester Raedan Institute Supporting Leicester Families Through the Cost of Living Crisis
Emergency Food Support in Leicester
At Raedan Institute, we understand that no family should have to choose between heating their home and feeding their children. Since 2006, our Leicester-based charity has been committed to supporting the most vulnerable members of our community, and our food bank initiative has become a lifeline for thousands of families across Leicestershire.
As the cost of living crisis continues to affect households throughout Leicester, we’ve intensified our efforts to ensure no one in our community goes hungry. With your support, we’ve already distributed food packs to over 5,500 families, providing more than 140,000 meals to those who need them most.
Our Food Bank Services What We Provide Our food bank operates differently from traditional food banks. We provide comprehensive food packs designed to sustain families for extended periods, ensuring they have access to nutritious, quality food when they need it most. Each food pack includes: Essential staples: rice, pasta, flour, sugar, cooking oil Tinned goods: vegetables, beans, tuna, tomatoes Long-life dairy products: UHT milk, powdered milk Breakfast items: cereal, porridge oats, tea, coffee Hygiene products: soap, toiletries, cleaning supplies Fresh produce when available Halal options available
During the COVID-19 lockdowns, we provided 2 large bags containing 6 weeks’ worth of food to each family. Many vulnerable families received support multiple times, with some receiving over 6 bags throughout the pandemic. We continue this generous approach because we believe in giving families real, sustained support rather than short-term fixes. Who Can Access Our Food Bank? Our food bank services are available to anyone in Leicester and Leicestershire facing financial hardship. We support: Families struggling with the cost of living crisis Individuals who have lost their jobs or face reduced income Elderly residents on limited pensions Single parents managing on tight budgets Students facing financial difficulties People awaiting benefits or facing benefit delays Anyone experiencing an unexpected financial emergency Refugees and asylum seekers Homeless individuals and families in temporary accommodation We operate a no-questions-asked policy. If you’re struggling to feed yourself or your family, we’re here to help. There’s no shame in asking for support – that’s what we’re here for.
Our Impact on Leicester Communities
Since establishing our food bank initiative, Raedan Institute has made a significant difference across Leicester and Leicestershire:
These aren’t just numbers – they represent real Leicester families, real children who went to bed with full stomachs, and real parents who didn’t have to make impossible choices. Every food pack we distribute represents hope, dignity, and community solidarity.
- 5,500+ families supported with emergency food packs
- 140,000+ people provided with essential food supplies
- 25,000+ food bags distributed during the pandemic alone
- 1000+ educational packs delivered alongside food support to help children continue learning
- 24/7 emergency response during crisis periods
How to Access Food Bank Support
For Those Needing Help
If you or someone you know needs food bank support in Leicester, accessing our services is simple and confidential:
Brief Assessment
We’ll have a brief, compassionate conversation to understand your situation and immediate needs. This helps us prepare the right food pack for you and your family size.
Contact Us
Phone: 07725 974831
Email: [email protected]
Visit: 2 Overton Road, Leicester, LE5 0JA
Collection or Delivery
Collect your food pack from our Leicester centre at a convenient time
Arrange delivery if you’re unable to travel (for elderly, disabled, or shielding individuals)
We operate with complete discretion and respect. Your information is confidential, and we treat every person with the dignity they deserve.
Emergency Support
In genuine emergencies, we can often provide same-day assistance. Don’t wait – if you’re in crisis, call us immediately on 07725 974831.
Beyond Food: Holistic Family Support
At Raedan Institute, we recognise that food insecurity often comes alongside other challenges. That’s why our food bank is part of a broader support network.
When you access our food bank, we can also connect you with these additional services to help address the root causes of financial hardship and build a more stable future for your family.
Additional Services We Offer:
Debt Relief Services
Professional advice and support to help families manage and reduce debt
Financial Literacy Workshops
Free courses to help improve money management skills
Educational Support
Free and subsidised tuition for children from struggling families
Mental Health Support
Coffee mornings and wellbeing workshops
Community Connections
Signposting to other local services and support organisations
How You Can Help
The success of our food bank depends entirely on the generosity of our Leicester community. There are several ways you can support this vital service:
1. Make a Financial Donation
Every £10 you donate can help provide a food pack for a struggling family. Financial donations allow us to
Purchase food in bulk at better prices
Respond quickly to increased demand
Include fresh produce and perishables
Cover delivery costs for vulnerable individuals
Donate online at www.raedan-institute.co.uk/donate or contact us to arrange a bank transfer.
2. Donate Food Items
We welcome donations of non-perishable food items at our Leicester centre:
Most needed items:
Rice (large bags)
Pasta and pasta sauce
Tinned vegetables, beans, and fish
Cooking oil
Tea, coffee, and sugar
UHT milk
Breakfast cereals
Toiletries and hygiene products
Drop-off location: 2 Overton Road, Leicester, LE5 0JA (please call ahead to arrange: 07725 974831)
3. Volunteer Your Time
We’re always looking for compassionate volunteers to help with:
Packing food parcels
Delivering to families in need
Sorting and organising donations
Assisting at our distribution centre
Fundraising and community outreach
Even a few hours per month can make an enormous difference. Contact us to discuss volunteer opportunities.
4. Organise a Food Drive
Schools, businesses, mosques, churches, and community groups can organise food collection drives. We’ll provide collection boxes and information about most-needed items. Contact us to set up a food drive in your workplace or community.
5. Raise Awareness
Share information about our food bank with your networks. Many people who need help don’t know where to turn, and many who want to help don’t know where to donate. By spreading the word, you help connect those in need with support.
Why Choose Raedan Institute?
- Registered Charity: We’re a registered UK charity (No. 1113547), ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Local Focus: Based in Leicester, we understand our community’s unique needs and serve families across Leicestershire.
- 16 Years of Service: Since 2006, we’ve built trust and expertise in supporting vulnerable families.
- No Religious Requirements: While we’re faith-inspired, our support is available to everyone regardless of background, faith, or circumstances.
- Dignity and Respect: We treat every person with compassion, understanding that anyone can face hard times.
- Holistic Approach: We address not just immediate hunger but the broader issues affecting family wellbeing.
Contact Our Food Bank
Raedan Institute Food Bank
2 Overton Rd, Leicester LE5 0JA
Info
Phone: 07725 974831
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.raedan-institute.co.uk
Opening Hours
Wednesday and Saturday, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (emergency support available outside hours by appointment)
Together, We Can End Food Poverty in Leicester
No family in Leicester should go hungry. With your support – whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness – we can ensure every person in our community has access to nutritious food and the support they need to build a brighter future.
If you’re struggling, please reach out. If you want to help, please get involved. Together, we can make Leicester a place where everyone has enough to eat.
Contact us today: 07725 974831 | [email protected]