Turning Surplus into Support: Charity Doubles Impact in New Appeal

By Charities Correspondent

A new fundraising appeal is helping to turn the challenge of food waste into practical support for people and communities, while also benefiting the environment.

FareShare Sussex & Surrey has launched its Earth Raise campaign on Earth Day, with a focus on rescuing good-quality surplus food and redistributing it to those who need it most.

As part of the initiative, donations made between 22 and 29 April will be matched, helping to extend the charity’s reach and impact.

The campaign highlights how surplus food, which might otherwise go to waste, can play a valuable role in addressing food poverty. Currently, the organisation supports 248 community partners and helps provide food for more than 28,500 people each week.

CEO Dan Slatter said the charity is focused on practical solutions that benefit both people and the planet:

“We’re demonstrating that there is a better way — one that reduces waste while supporting communities.”

Alongside tackling hunger, the initiative also contributes to environmental goals.

By redistributing surplus food and diverting waste from landfill, the organisation helps reduce emissions associated with food production and disposal.

Funds raised through the appeal will support further expansion of food redistribution, increased community composting, and continued investment in lower-carbon operations, including electric vehicles.

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Nathan Catt, Head of Operations, explained the wider impact:

“By getting food to people instead of landfill, we prevent emissions and reduce the need for additional production. It’s a practical way to deliver environmental and social benefits at the same time.”

Since its founding in 2002, FareShare Sussex & Surrey has worked with producers, manufacturers and retailers to ensure surplus food reaches frontline charities and community groups.

Supporting the appeal, Brighton Pavilion MP Siân Berry described the work as “a positive example of climate action in practice,” encouraging people to contribute during the matched funding period.

The Earth Raise appeal runs until 29 April, offering an opportunity for donations to go further while supporting a more sustainable and inclusive food system.

Donations can be made via this link until April 29th: https://donate.biggive.org/campaign/a05WS00000BsJddYAF