This year, on Tuesday 1 November, I’m starting my Reverse Advent Calendar in support of Ely Foodbank – and I’m really hoping other local residents will too.

The Reverse Advent Calendar is an idea that is catching people’s attention as they start to plan for Christmas and thoughts turn to those who find this time of year a huge strain on resources. The idea is simple: one item placed in a hamper or box per day during November, to be donated to a local Foodbank at the end of the month, ready for the Foodbank to distribute during December.

The Foodbank uses their contacts through agencies, and clients to ensure the food is directed to those who need some reassurance at this time, that they will be able to enjoy something a little extra over Christmas.

This idea isn’t just for Foodbank users; anyone who knows someone who could benefit can contact info@elyfoodbank.org.uk and give their details.

Here are some suggestions for what to put in your box, put together by Ely Foodbank, but get creative and feel free to put your own list together!

• Day 1 – Advent Calendar
• Day 2 – Christmas Pudding
• Day 3 – Chocolate Coins
• Day 4 – Christmas Cake
• Day 5 – Toothbrush
• Day 6 – Shower gel
• Day 7 – Fruit Juice
• Day 8 – Toilet rolls
• Day 9 – Wrapping paper
• Day 10 – Tinned ham
• Day 11 – Jam
• Day 12 – Coffee
• Day 13 – Tea
• Day 14 – Mincemeat pies
• Day 15 – Box of chocolates
• Day 16 – Deodorant
• Day 17 – Box of crackers
• Day 18 – Crisps
• Day 19 – Tinned fish
• Day 20 – Biscuits
• Day 21 – Candy canes
• Day 22 – Toothpaste
• Day 23 – Biscuits
• Day 24 – Custard

Once you have filled your box or hamper, you can bring it along to the Foodbank Store, Barton Road, Ely on Fridays 12.30-2.00pm. If you live in Little Downham, St Leonards Church is receiving filled boxes or hampers by the end of November.  If you live in Sutton, a local drop-off event may be organised – look out for details! For other drop-offs, please phone 01353 468626 for more information on delivery and times.