Manchester people who have helped to alleviate poverty and reduce food waste have been thanked by Tesco as part of special landmark celebrations.

The supermarket chain has reached the milestone of donating 220 million meals to those in need through its Community Food Connection programme with the food charity FareShare.

To commemorate the occasion, Tesco is paying tribute to the volunteers, community groups and Tesco colleagues who have contributed to the success of the partnership.

Over the years, the partnership has seen the North West donate 14,480,983 meals.

Matthew Barnes, UK CEO of Tesco, said: “Tesco is immensely proud of its partnership with FareShare and the fantastic achievement of donating 220 million meals over the last 12 years.

“None of this could have been done without the passion, determination and drive of the countless people in places such as Manchester who have contributed to it, and it is to them today that we say a big thank you.

“But the hard work doesn’t stop here. While this is a momentous milestone, we remain committed to partnering with FareShare as we work towards our goal of halving food waste and getting more good food to people.”

One of the groups that has benefited from the Community Food Connection scheme is Lifeshare.

Lifeshare is a voluntary organisation established to help meet the needs of homeless and vulnerable people in Manchester and Salford. The team offers assistance to people experiencing homelessness in obtaining emergency accommodation, signposting other relevant agencies and information for support.

Every week, the charity gets free surplus food from Tesco stores via the Community Food Connection programme. The food they collect is made available to people experiencing homelessness in the Manchester area.

Judy Vickers, executive officer at Lifeshare, said: “The current situation is really worrying. We see so many people who are unable to afford basic food provisions or are experiencing homelessness.

“With thanks to Tesco and other organisations, we’re able to provide food parcels to around 20 families each week and serve over 350 breakfasts every single weekend from our homeless respite project in central Manchester.

“Everyone is worried about the growing numbers facing homelessness. We couldn’t do our work without the help of organisations like Tesco providing this much-needed food that should never go to waste.”

Now in its 12th year, Tesco’s partnership with FareShare sees surplus food from Tesco stores and distribution centres donated to FareShare’s network of charities, community groups and food banks, bringing people together to help alleviate poverty and reduce food waste.

George Wright, CEO of FareShare, said: “FareShare has worked with Tesco since 2012 to help alleviate poverty in the UK by ensuring surplus food within its supply chain is used to feed people and doesn’t end up as waste. Quite simply, FareShare could not do what we do without Tesco’s incredible support.

“The milestone of 220 million meals donated is a testament to all those involved in our partnership with Tesco. These 220 million meals have supported causes across the UK, from local community groups, charities and food banks helping those who need it most.”