A housing association working across North and Mid Wales has thanked residents, staff and contractors after raising more than £6,500 worth of food and essential items for local foodbanks ahead of Christmas.
The annual foodbank collection organised by social and affordable housing provider ClwydAlyn is now in its sixth year. Led by staff and supported by suppliers, partners, contractors and residents, the initiative brings together donations at a time when many households are facing increased financial pressure.
Items were collected from ClwydAlyn’s residential and community schemes, as well as its head office in St Asaph. All donations were distributed to local foodbanks across the region, ensuring support reached communities close to where it was gathered.
Growing Demand for Foodbank Support
The need for foodbanks continues to rise. Over the last five years, food prices have increased by more than a third. Figures released by anti-poverty charity Trussell Trust show that between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, around 172,000 emergency food parcels were provided in Wales, including approximately 60,000 for children. This represents an increase of more than 20% compared to levels before the pandemic.
Foodbanks play an important role for people struggling to cover everyday costs. Alongside emergency food, many also provide toiletries, household items and information about other support services.
ClwydAlyn says it remains aware of the ongoing challenges faced by residents and local communities, particularly during the colder winter months.
Staff-Led Effort Supports Local Communities
The 2025 collection was organised by Louise Smith-Aldous, Operational Projects Health and Safety Officer at ClwydAlyn. She said:
“Many people are finding things increasingly difficult. Thank you to everyone who donated to this year’s foodbank collection. The support shown by residents, staff and contractors will make a real difference locally.”
Suzanne Mazzone, Executive Director of Resident Services at ClwydAlyn, also thanked those involved. She added:
“If any of our residents are struggling, we encourage them to contact their housing officer. Support and foodbank referrals can be arranged quickly and confidentially.
“We can also help residents access further support, including money advice, benefits guidance and local community services. Thanks also to Louise for coordinating this year’s collection, which will support families across the region.”
Supporting Foodbanks Across North Wales
The donations were shared between 11 foodbanks and community organisations, including Abergele Foodbank, Shotton Foodbank, Flint Foodbank, Wrexham Foodbank Depot, Rhyl Foodbank, Llandudno Foodbank, Holyhead Foodbank, Pwllheli Foodbank, Chirk Community Cupboard, Prestatyn Foodbank and Denbigh Foodbank.
Contributions came from ClwydAlyn colleagues and residents, alongside financial donations from a number of local businesses and organisations, which were used to purchase additional food items.
ClwydAlyn also acknowledged the support of companies and organisations including Wall Lag (Wales) Ltd, Castle Carpets, Bridge Garage Rhyl, D&L Contracting, Williams Homes (Bala) Ltd, Total Boilers Wrexham, Wakemans Caernarfon, K&C Construction, NHS Children’s Centre and others.
For more information about ClwydAlyn, visit www.clwydalyn.co.uk
