Leading potato supplier Albert Bartlett has reached a significant milestone, providing the equivalent of 15m meals to FareShare, as part of a 15-year partnership that supports people in need across the UK. The collaboration, aimed at reducing food waste and supporting vulnerable communities, has delivered surplus potatoes to thousands of charities and community groups, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
Across the UK Albert Bartlett’s donations have helped organisations supported by FareShare provide nutritious meals to individuals and families facing food insecurity.
The Heart of Scotstoun in Glasgow has used the surplus potatoes to support its community café and provide fresh, healthy meals to vulnerable groups.
Julie Cunningham, Community Manager at The Heart of Scotstoun, said: “The surplus potatoes we receive from FareShare, thanks to Albert Bartlett, have made a huge difference to our community. Potatoes are versatile and nutritious, allowing us to create a variety of hearty meals for the people we serve. It’s partnerships like these that make a real impact in tackling food insecurity and we’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing support.”
New Beginnings, Improving Lives (NBIL) in Liverpool is another one of the many charities that are supported by FareShare, and have used potatoes supplied by Albert Bartlett to provide essential food parcels, stock for their mobile food pantry and community support for families, individuals, and vulnerable groups in the region.
Michelle Roach, Founder of NBIL, added: “Our partnership work with FareShare is invaluable to NBIL and our service users. We support over 600 households per week across Merseyside and for NBIL, it is important to offer a variety of food, including fresh fruit and vegetables. As we work in many deprived areas where fruit and vegetables are a luxury, we ensure good food is available to all. The result is that people eat better and their overall health improves. We, as a community, are very appreciative of the partnership and generosity from Albert Bartlett.”
The milestone also comes at a time when demand for food from FareShare remains at an all-time high. Charities and groups across the UK are working harder than ever to support people and communities impacted by the cost-of-living crisis. Food from FareShare, including potatoes provided by Albert Bartlett, helps bring people together through food, strengthening communities and changing lives.
John Heginbottom, Director at Albert Bartlett, said: “We are incredibly proud to have worked alongside FareShare for the past 15 years to tackle food waste and support communities in need. Reaching 15m meals is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved – from our farmers to FareShare’s volunteers and the inspiring charities like The Heart of Scotstoun and NBIL. Together, we’re making a real difference to people’s lives across the UK and we look forward to continuing this important work.”
FareShare’s partnership with Albert Bartlett ensures that surplus potatoes, which might otherwise go to waste, are distributed through its regional operations to a nationwide network of over 8,000 charities and community groups. These potatoes help create wholesome meals for people on low incomes, families, and those experiencing homelessness.