World Food Day: Food is a right, not a luxury
On Friday 16 October 2026, communities around the world mark World Food Day, a moment to reflect on a simple truth: everyone deserves enough good food to eat.
Here in the UK, The Food Foundation's Food Prices Tracker: July 2026, found that 12.2% of households were experiencing food insecurity. That’s 6.5 million adults and 2.2 million children. Food prices have risen by more than 30% since April 2022. Similarly, a UK government report published in June 2026, found that in 2025 food banks in the Trussell network handed out 2.6 million emergency food parcels, with 912,000 of them being given to children (Food banks in the UK - House of Commons Library).
Here at Hornsey Foodbank, that truth feels close to home. Rising living costs continue to stretch household budgets, and more of our neighbours are facing impossible choices between heating, rent and putting food on the table. Behind the food offering we provide is a person or family doing their best through a difficult time. Each week, the Hornsey Foodbank provides food and toiletries to support over 1,200 people in our community.
World Food Day reminds us that hunger isn't only a global issue. It's a local one, and it's something we can tackle together.
This year, we're asking our community to get involved in whatever way works for you:
Donate food and hygiene products. We would love to receive donations of rice, baked beans, tinned sardines, tinned ham, tinned tomatoes, tinned fruit, biscuits, instant coffee, sanitary products and incontinence pads. We accept donations at Middle Lane Methodist Church, Middle Lane, London N8 8NT on Wednesdays from 9.30am to 3pm and 5pm to 6pm or on Thursdays between 9.30am and 10.30am. Donations can be left at David Astbury Estate Agents (15 Park Road, N8 8TE) and Philip Alexander Estate Agents (52 High Street, N8 7NX and 128 Crouch Hill, N8 9DY) during office hours.
Give financially. Regular donations help us plan ahead and buy essentials when stocks run low. You can donate via Hornsey Food Bank | Localgiving
Volunteer your time. From sorting donations to welcoming clients, every pair of hands matters. Please email us at wearehornsey@gmail.com if you would like to volunteer.
Spread the word. Share this post and help others find support or get involved.
Together, we can aim to ensure people in our local community do not go hungry. Thank you for standing with us.