Tesco launches Christmas Appeal for Offaly causes

Tesco Ireland has launched its annual Christmas Appeal, taking place in 115 stores nationwide from Friday, December 1 to Sunday, December 3, and online.

Customers are being encouraged to donate non-perishable food items, clothing or toys to benefit local Family Resource Centres and organisations supporting children and their families this Christmas across Offaly.

Some of the community groups in Offaly that will be supported by the Christmas Appeal include Meals on Wheels, SVP Clara and The Acorn Project.

Since 2013, €1.7 million has been donated through the annual appeal - the equivalent of 1.4 million meals have been shared with those in need in local communities across Ireland, with over €13,000 donated to causes in Offaly.

The campaign encourages shoppers to purchase an additional item during their trip to selected Tesco stores and donate it to the Christmas Appeal trolley located in the store on their way out.

Customers are being asked to pick up an extra non-perishable food item (e.g. tea bags, pasta and rice, breakfast cereals, and tinned goods) or household necessities (e.g. toiletries, nappies, small clothing items, and toys) to add to the trolley, with 100% of the items being donated to over 165 community groups across the country.

Rosemary Garth, Communications Director, Tesco Ireland said: “We are urging customers who are in a position to do so to get involved in this year’s Christmas Appeal. Customers can do this by picking up one additional item during their shop and donating it to the Christmas Appeal trolleys located in Tesco stores nationwide, or by purchasing a donation bundle online.

"We’re proud to support DEIS schoolchildren and their families across the country through our Stronger Starts programme, so we know that even the smallest donation to our Christmas Appeal can really support those in need. We’re hoping that our customers, who have shown incredible kindness over the years, can help us spread a little bit more joy this Christmas.”

Christmas Appeal donation trolleys will be attended to by volunteers from local Family Resource Centres and other local organisations helping to support children and their families.

This is the second year the Christmas Appeal will also run online at Tesco.ie until Sunday, December 3, where customers have the option to purchase a €2.50 and/or €5 bundle for donation.