Just Eat launches Christmas Meal Appeal in Halifax

Other well-known faces including Rob Brydon and Sir Chris Hoy have posted videos backing the new Christmas Meal Appeal launched by Just Eat in partnership with charities Social Bite & FoodCycle.

The appeal comes after reports detail the increasing issue of homelessness in the UK, and the increased pressure and reliance on charities as the nation deals with the economic and social fallout of the Covid pandemic.

2020 has been like no other, but one positive outcome from this exceptionally challenging year is the sense of community and camaraderie that has emerged. Over 50% of people in the region want to do more to help those less fortunate this Christmas and over two-thirds say they are more appreciative of the comforts they have following the events of 2020.

The funds raised will be distributed to Depaul UK and Changing Lives by Social Bite who support homeless people through meal donations. Depaul UK works with some of the most disadvantaged young people, and specialises in supporting communities where poverty and long-term unemployment have resulted in generations of social exclusion and high rates of homelessness.

Changing Lives helps people in Yorkshire facing the most challenging of circumstances to make positive change - for good. The charity believes that everyone deserves a safe home, a rewarding job and a life free from addiction or abuse.

The Just Eat Christmas Meal Appeal is the perfect opportunity to help out and give back as we move towards the Christmas celebration, with many of us now hoping to be able to spend it with at least some of our family and friends.

Just Eat has committed to raising funds for at least 100,000 Christmas meals for homeless and vulnerable people and with support from customers, are aiming to fund up to 200,000. Customers can take part by clicking the donation button whilst they order their takeaway.

They’ll have the choice of making a £3, £5 or £10 donation and Just Eat will match it, pound for pound.

Andrew Kenny UK MD for Just Eat commented: “After an exceptionally difficult year for so many, we're proud to partner with Social Bite & FoodCycle, matching customers' donations pound for pound to provide tens of thousands of Christmas meals for the UK’s homeless and vulnerable people.”

Josh Littlejohn from Social Bite added: “This year has been a lot more difficult than most, with many people finding themselves financially vulnerable and in the worst-case, homeless. We know that Christmas, in particular, can be a very challenging time which is why we’re delighted to be partnering with Just Eat for the Christmas Meal Appeal to help fill at least 100,000 plates this year all over the UK’.

Mark McGreevy, Depaul Group Chief Executive said: “This year has been incredibly challenging for everyone and even more so for the most vulnerable members of our society. We’re proud to be working with Social Bite and Just Eat, allowing us to provide meals around Christmas and throughout the winter period to those in Yorkshire who may be spending it alone and without a decent meal.

“I’d encourage anyone who can, to make the donation when they order from Just Eat. This small contribution can go such a long way and make a huge difference to those who need help the most during this festive period.”

Stephen Bell OBE, CEO of Changing Lives said: “We are delighted that Changing Lives has been chosen as one of the charities that will benefit from this fantastic campaign with Social Bite and Just Eat. Every single donation we receive will go directly to those accessing our services in the North East and will help Changing Lives deliver food packages to provide even more support during the winter period.”