Devon and Cornwall Food Action named Chief Constable’s Charity of the Year
Police officers in Devon will work with DCFA over the next 12 months to raise money and promote a better understanding of vulnerability and hunger
An organisation which works to drive out hunger in Devon and Cornwall has been selected at the official Force charity for 2021
Devon and Cornwall Food Action (DCFA), which works with producers and supermarkets to redistribute surplus food to those in need, was selected after a poll across the Force.
Run almost entirely by a volunteer workforce, the organisation strives to eradicate food poverty in Plymouth, Devon and Cornwall and distributes as many as 300 family boxes of food a week – an estimated 500 tonnes annually.
The force will work with DCFA over the next 12 months, not only to raise money but also to promote a better understanding of vulnerability and hunger.
It is also hoped the partnership will boost volunteering at DCFA, who always need extra help with filling orders and deliveries.
Alan Dunne, chairman, says the charity is keen to strengthen ties with neighbourhood policing teams and boost the volunteer network.
“Driving out poverty is a big task but we keep chipping away and have expanded the operation massively in recent years,” he said.
“We already have a very good relationship with the police, who sometimes put us in touch with people in severe need, so this partnership is a great way to develop ways for us to help each other.
“Also, we urgently need volunteers to join our pool – even a few hours each week can make a difference – driving our vans and filling boxes.”
Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer said:
“Given the difficult year many families in Devon and Cornwall have experienced, the choice of DCFA as our charity of the year is timely.
“We will of course channel the extraordinary fundraising powers of our workforce towards this exceptional organisation and its dedicated volunteers.
“There is also a great opportunity to learn more about each other and create a longer-lasting partnership.”
The Force is currently working closely with DCFA to identify areas where the two organisations can work together, in terms of signposting and training.