Over the next 12 months we will be focussing on a different area of Open Hands each month and highlighting the specific needs each area has. These will run alongside our Essential Items – which are needed all of the time – and urgent appeals – when we are running short of something unexpectedly.

We will update this page with resources for you to be able to engage in an easy and meaningful way, and in the month and area that calls to you.

 

Month	Appeal Focus
January	Men’s Clothing (Focussing on Small and Medium sizes)
February	Toiletries
March	Easter Eggs – see below for resource pack
April	Sleeping Bags
May	Food
June	Fundraising Focus, including Run Leicester
July	Bare Necessities (pants & socks)
August	Bags (bags for life, and rucksacks)
September	Warm Winter (sleeping bags/coats/hats/gloves/scarves/blankets/socks)
October	Harvest Food
November	Christmas Food Treats
December	Give Today Focus

 

 

May Appeal – Food

 

In May, we are raising awareness of the level of food donations needed to keep our food store running.

Each week, we provide over £2,000 worth of food hampers to around 100 individuals. These hampers include essential cupboard items, with a mix of food that requires cooking and food that can be eaten without it. As many of our guests do not have access to cooking facilities, it is vital that we stock a range of suitable items to meet all needs.

There are several ways you can support us during this campaign:

• Donate from your cupboards – any suitable, in-date items are greatly appreciated.
• Buy as you shop – you can leave donations at our supermarket drop-off points or bring them directly to the Open Hands Compassion Centre on a Tuesday or Thursday afternoon.
• Give today – purchase a bundle of food or individual items to support our work.

To help you remember what we need, why not print off our shopping list and take it with you when you shop.

Every contribution helps us continue supporting those who rely on this vital service. Thank you for your generosity.

Printable version – Shopping List

Help us promote this campaign 

May Food Appeal 2026 – Resource Pack

Here are a few resources you can use to promote this campaign within your Church, school, company or amongst family and friends. If there is anything else you think would help, message via the form below.

April Appeal – Sleeping Bags

In April you donated over 50 sleeping bags! Thank you to everyone who supported our campaign.

 

How can we help you, help us!

We would love to hear from you on how we can help you engage with these appeals. Do you need a donations bin, or signage. Do you want to link with us on Social Media, or have you got any amazing ideas on how you can encourage people to engage with the appeal. Just pop your comments below and they will be looked at by the team. You can leave your details if you would like us to get back to you.