ICG has been helping local charity, Blackpool’s Big Food Project as it faces one of the toughest periods in its history.
The “food bank of food banks” is working with ICG as rising demand, increased operating costs and depleted reserves are putting its essential services at risk.
The charity, formed 15 years ago, supports 120 food banks, schools, crisis teams and community organisations across Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre and provides over 17,000 meals every week
“Right now we’re facing a perfect storm and demand has never been higher. The cost of simply keeping our warehouse open and our trucks on the road is growing every month,” said Claire Powell, Chief Executive at The Big Food Project.
Preston-based ICG pledged to raise awareness and increase donations, with 2 campaigns, aimed at people and businesses.
The Festive Feed campaign is asking the community to donate money to ensure families eat at Christmas and its 26 for ’26 business partnership appeal has four levels of corporate sponsorship.
The support includes campaign development, strategic messaging, creative design, social media content, digital assets and targeted public relations to enable the charity to communicate its message clearly and quickly.
“When we spoke to Claire we knew we had to do something. This organisation is at the heart of our community and the work they do is a lifeline for so many. The thought of families going hungry because essential services can’t continue is something none of us can ignore,” said Simon Couchman, Managing Director at ICG.
“We’re proud to stand alongside the team and to use our skills to support their appeal. This is a moment for local people and businesses to come together to help secure the future of food support across our area.”
During the launch week, the charity featured in local and national press, making the front page of the Blackpool Gazette, appearing in the Daily Mirror and securing broadcast interviews with BBC Radio Lancashire, BBC North West Tonight and Granada Reports.
It had organic reach of over 30,000 across Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram ahead of paid campaigns being rolled out.
As a result, thousands of pounds have already been donated – although they’re still short of their £100,000 target.
“ICG’s support has been extraordinary. They came to us immediately, listened to what we needed and got to work without hesitation,” continued Powell.
“They have helped give our appeal a powerful voice and their work is helping us reach more people, more quickly. This could make the difference between surviving this winter or having to close our doors.”
