RESIDENTS in Salisbury are being urged to fill shopping bags with essential food items next month as hundreds of schoolchildren take over the city centre for a day of community action.

Around 150 Year 7 pupils from Sarum Academy will be out and about in Salisbury on Wednesday, July 8, as part of the school’s annual Citizenship Day, with one group leading a major food drive in the Market Square from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

The event is bringing together the Salisbury Foodie Network, Wiltshire Council, Salisbury Foodbank, Salisbury Pantry, Old Sarum and Longhedge Pantry, Sarum Academy and Salisbury City Council in a bid to replenish dwindling food supplies during one of the quietest times of the year for donations.

More than 20 students will spend the day collecting and sorting food donations, speaking to shoppers and raising awareness of the growing demand for food support across the city.

The appeal comes as food projects continue to face increasing pressure.

Salisbury Pantry currently supports 329 member households, reaching 639 people, while Old Sarum and Longhedge Pantry helps around 70 households every week and has approximately 400 registered households.

Salisbury Foodbank also continues to provide emergency food parcels to families and individuals facing financial hardship.

Wiltshire Council deputy leader and cabinet member for communities Cllr Mel Jacob said: “We’re incredibly proud to see our young people stepping forward to support such an important cause in the heart of their community.

“This food drive is a wonderful opportunity for residents to come together, donate what they can, and show their encouragement for the students taking part.

“We would encourage anyone who is able to drop by Market Square on the day, have a chat with our volunteers and students, and contribute if they can. Community support is vital to keeping these services running.”

Residents are being asked to donate items including tinned meat and fish, ready meals in tins, rice, instant mash, tinned fruit, long-life fruit juice, cooking oil, biscuits, sandwich spreads and long-life desserts.

Organisers hope the event will not only stock local food banks and pantries but also inspire the next generation to discover the value of volunteering and supporting their community.