Himmah Food Bank is facing a critical challenge this winter due to the unexpected withdrawal of funding from Nottingham City Council, which has recently declared “bankruptcy”. This setback comes at a time when they are experiencing record demand on their services, providing around 400 food parcels per week, as well as preparing to distribute 1,600 seasonal goody bags to disadvantaged children across more than 20 schools in Nottingham this winter.  

For the last 5 years Himmah has been working with local primary schools to provide hampers and goody bags for disadvantaged children. As the cost-of-living crisis has affected local working families' finances. Himmah wanted every child to have a smile of joy over the winter holiday season. Usually, the goody bags are part funded by local ward Councillors  budgets but due to the City Council issuing a Section 114; the funding has been cancelled as “non-essential spend” threatening the project. 

 "We are incredibly disheartened by this development," stated Shoaib Khan, Chair of Trustees at Himmah. "The council's support was crucial for our winter campaign, and its absence puts our plans to spread joy to these children at risk." 

The food bank has already invested in sweets, books, and other items for the gift bundles. "Our team is committed to making a positive impact, but we now face a significant financial gap," explained Elliot Farnsworth, Partnerships Coordinator. "We appeal to the people of Nottingham to help us ensure that no child misses out on something special this winter." 

Himmah is launching a fundraising campaign on Aviva's platform and urges the community to contribute. 

Media Enquiries please contact Elliot Farnsworth, elliot@himmah.org 07944417583