Meet Cambridge, the official conference and events bureau for Cambridge and the surrounding area, has launched a new campaign to support those in food poverty in Cambridge, called Meet Up & Make a Difference.
With more than 50 venues in its portfolio, clients have been encouraged to take action at their future events with the aim of helping two Cambridge-based organisations: Cambridge City Food Bank and Cambridge Sustainable Food CIC, as well as encouraging event organisers hosting business meetings to do one or more of four things at their future events.
These include: ‘Pass On The Pastries’, as pastries are generally a source of food waste, so organisers are being encouraged to go without and donate the cost to the campaign instead. Hosting a food bank collection by asking delegates to come to the event with one or two non-perishable food items. Adding a hypothetical ‘fourth course’ to a corporate lunch or dinner menu in the form of a QR code to encourage guests to make a donation, and offering delegates the opportunity to make a direct donation by incorporating a QR code on the event registration form.
Judith Sloane, head of Meet Cambridge said: “Many in our immediate community are struggling to feed themselves and their families and rely on supplies provided by food banks. We believe that the events industry is in a position to help and that’s why we have launched Meet Up & Make a Difference.”
Sloane added: “We have suggested four very simple ways to encourage event organisers, venues and delegates to integrate a means of supporting the two organisations in our city as part of their conference, meeting or dinner. It’s important to us that business events have a positive impact on our city and this is a very simple way to ensure that.”
Steve Clay, CEO of Cambridge City Food Bank said: “Initiatives such as Meet Cambridge’s Meet Up & Make a Difference are a fantastic opportunity for businesses and organisations to learn about and support charities such as ours that rely upon donations. Thank you to Meet Cambridge and to all of the event organisers who are striving to give something back to those in need in Cambridge. You truly are making a difference.”
In April, Cambridge City Food Bank issued 1,447 three-day emergency food parcels, 33% more than in the same month last year. In 2023, almost 16,000 people were supported and the need is increasing month on month, as a result, more donations are needed. Presently, Cambridge City Food bank is purchasing almost 25% of its stock, which is not sustainable on a long-term basis.
