Community rallies as Paignton Larder plans 120 Christmas hampers for local families

Volunteers race to meet soaring winter demand, with Claire Carthy calling on Torbay to back this year’s reverse advent appeal

Reporter:

Lizzie Kings

03 Dec 2025 3:42 PM

Email:

elizabeth.kings@clearskypublishing.co.uk

Paignton Community Larder are again gearing up to put together over 120 Christmas hampers to deliver to disadvantaged families across Paignton and the wider Torbay area as demand for support continues to rise sharply this winter.

The Larder has already provided over 50,000 meals this year so far, reflecting the increasing number of households struggling with food insecurity and the continued pressure many are experiencing due to rising living costs.

Their dedicated volunteers are now busy collecting, sorting and packing the festive hampers, each containing everything needed for a Christmas meal.

The aim is not only to ease financial pressure at a particularly difficult time of year, but also to bring dignity and joy back into the Christmas season for families facing hardship, offering reassurance that their community stands beside them.

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This year the Larder is again running its reverse advent calendar, encouraging the Torbay community to buy one item a day throughout the month of December.

The suggested items which are detailed on the accompanying poster include Christmas Pudding, selection boxes, Cranberry sauce and stuffing. Supporters can donate items daily or drop off a completed box in one go, making it simple for households, workplaces and groups to participate.

Larder manager Claire Carthy emphasised the importance of community support: "It is a privilege to support families this Christmas, but we need the help of the local community to make that happen. Every donation makes a difference and the reverse advent calendar is a great way for people to support those in need this festive season."

The Christmas hampers will be distributed through a referral system involving local schools, social workers, and other community agencies, ensuring they reach those most in need.

Members of the public wishing to help are encouraged to check the donation-poster for required items and deliver their contributions before the deadline of 2pm Wednesday December 17.

Claire says: "Together, the people of Torbay can help ensure that every family has the chance to enjoy a brighter, warmer Christmas, filled with a renewed sense of hope and community spirit."

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