The Executive Committee is requesting that all branches and members participate in the YCL’s first National Foodbank Collection on Saturday 20 October 2018.
Food poverty in Britain in 2018
Statistics from the Trussel Trust, the nationwide charity coordinating foodbanks, show that since 2010 the number of emergency three day food supplies provided by foodbanks in Britain has increased from just over 40,898 to 1,332,952 in 2018 – an increase of 3,275%. Approximately 666,476 people have used foodbanks in the year 2017 -2018. The real figure could be far higher.
The reality behind these statistics is sickening – working people in one of the richest countries on the planet are unable to feed themselves. It is a damning indictment of the inhumane capitalist system. This increase is the direct result of the austerity policies of successive Conservative Governments.
Workers must fight to remove this anti-worker government. But we also need to come together to help the most vulnerable working people made to suffer in the interests of big business and finance capital.
What we need you to do
Branches should identify the most effective foodbank in their area who their collections will be donated to.
Branches should then formulate a plan for their collection. Use whatever approach will be most effective in your area. A stall outside a large supermarket with a bin for collections is generally the best method. However some branches might prefer to do door to door collections. The EC will provide posters and leaflets to highlight our work which explains what we’re doing and why we’re doing it. Branches should submit their plan for the National Collection no later than Friday 12 October 2018.
Branches are asked to provide a full report of their activity as soon as possible afterwards for use in a national press statement.
Why we’re doing it
Communists don’t believe in charity. Working people deserve more than the crumbs off the table.
This is a political act. It will draw attention to the cruel impact of Tory austerity in the working class communities that we live in. It is a practical example of working class solidarity and a demonstration of unity in the face of this Government.
Equally importantly, it will provide some small relief to those facing dire poverty as we approach winter. All branches should consider carrying this initiative forward and holding regular foodbank collections in their communities.
All comrades and branches should answer this call and do their part to make this National Foodbank Collection a success.
For peace, jobs and socialism in our lifetime!
Executive Committee
Young Communist League
London, Britain
28 September 2018