A cheque presentation saw the money officially given to Feeding Families at their warehouse and distribution centre in Blaydon, Gateshead.

Nexus who own and operate Tyne and Wear Metro, the Sheilds Ferry and also some bus services saw their employees vote to choose Feeding Families as the operators annual charity. Nexus have also supported the charity with regular food donations right through the year alongside the fundraising activities.

Public Affairs Manager at Nexus, Lynne Robinson, said:

“I’m really pleased that our teams have spent the last year raising this fantastic sum of money for Feeding Families.

“Lots of employees have got involved, helping out a really worthy local cause. The pandemic meant it was harder for us to raise money, as lots of activities like bake sales couldn’t happen, but of course it was also extremely hard for a lot of families who struggled more than ever, so I’m delighted with the support we’ve been able to give.”

Nexus have five office locations and each saw food collection points organised with employees encouraged to bring a tin to work to donate. Food drop offs to the Feeding Families warehouse have been made regularly throughout the year, with this week seeing more than 50 Easter eggs delivered to the charity.

15 Nexus employees also supported the charity at Christmas with an afternoon at the centre where they volunteered, packing hundreds of Christmas hampers. Fundraising efforts also saw a recent Metro lost property sale at Tynemouth Market raise £777 for Feeding Families.

The money made will be put towards the purchase of a new van, which will enable the charity to get out and deliver even more food parcels.

Feeding Families provide more than 1,000 emergency food parcels each month working with referrals from GPs, mental health nurses, schools, family support workers and social services from the 12 local authorities in the North East to those who need support.

Sarah McPhie, Communications and Fundraising Manager for Feeding Families said:

“We have been overwhelmed by the support from Nexus. Not only have they donated such a large amount of money, which has gone towards a van, but they have also supported us with generous food collections and volunteering time. The demand for emergency food parcels is rising weekly and having the van will help us to reach more people in need.”

To find out more about Feeding Families please visit: https://feedingfamilies.org.uk