Red Funnel’s commitment to supporting the Island community was highlighted last week, as team members gathered at the Isle of Wight Foodbank to celebrate a successful year of support.
The ferry operator’s annual cheque presentation event affirmed the final funds raised by Red Funnel staff and customers, with a grand total of £27,000. These vital funds will go directly towards ensuring the Foodbank can continue its essential work and notably be put toward, the purchasing of food.
Other support
In addition to raising funds, Red Funnel also supported the Foodbank with volunteer time, ferry travel expenses and advertising initiatives, helping to build broader awareness and support the Foodbank. The company also collected over 300kg in food and sundry donations collected via donation drop points at their ticket and support offices.
Red Funnel staff members also notably participated in the Foodbank’s annual ‘Reverse Advent’ initiative, which saw staff get together to build boxes containing 24 items in support islanders in need around the festive season.
Lewis: These collective efforts have made a significant impact
Speaking on the impact of Red Funnel’s contribution, Kay Lewis, Manager of the Isle of Wight Foodbank, said,
“We extend our sincere thanks to the staff and customers of Red Funnel. Their support for our work in the local community has been invaluable.
“We have greatly appreciated the opportunity to collaborate with various teams within Red Funnel, whose assistance has been instrumental in collecting food for our Reverse Advent, sorting pre-loved clothing donations, managing stock and donations, and supporting our annual stock take.
“Throughout the year, Red Funnel customers have generously contributed food into our collection baskets at the terminals, donated monies in our collection pots, and made online donations.
“These collective efforts have made a significant impact, enabling us to continue to provide three days of emergency food to anyone in need within our community.”
Collins: We will always champion the Foodbank’s vital work in our community
Fran Collins, CEO for Red Funnel, said,
“As our year of partnership with the Isle of Wight Foodbank comes to an end, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to our staff and customers who have contributed so generously. Their donations, time, and enthusiasm have made a real difference to those in crisis.
“The Foodbank’s incredible team continues to provide not only vital food supplies but also life-changing support, helping individuals regain stability and hope.
“It has been an honour to support such a dedicated organisation full of incredible and inspiring volunteers. While our formal partnership has concluded, we will always champion the Foodbank’s vital work in our community, and we will continue to maintain ties.”
Red Funnel will continue to collect non-perishable food and sundry donations for the Foodbank at its ticket offices in East and West Cowes.
Isle of Wight Foodbank
The Isle of Wight Foodbank, part of the Trussell network, operates across the Island to help those struggling with food poverty.
Collaborating with local agencies, the charity not only supplies immediate relief but also offers guidance to help individuals access benefits, financial support, and other essential services aimed at building long-term stability. They operate five foodbanks across Cowes, Newport, Ryde, Shanklin and Freshwater.
Red Funnel’s ‘Charity of the Year’
The Isle of Wight Foodbank was chosen as Red Funnel’s ‘Charity of the Year’ following a staff and public vote. Since launching its annual programme in 2015, Red Funnel has raised over £400,000 in support of local charitable organisations.
The company remains committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities it serves and continues to run its Charity of the Year programme under the banner of its ESG initiative, ‘Changing Tides’.
To find out more about the Isle of Wight Foodbank, including how you can help donate or volunteer, or how you can access support, visit the website.
Red Funnel’s Charity of the Year for 2025 is Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
News shared by Sophie on behalf of Red Funnel. Ed
