A charity that works with  young people, including those who find themselves outside of mainstream education, has launched an appeal to help feed the most vulnerable this winter.

The Switch Up Community Appeal is calling on Nottinghamshire businesses, as well as residents, to come together and help those in need.

Switch Up, which launched a Mansfield community hub in 2022, uses sport, mentoring, and physical training as a way of deterring young people from a life of crime.

Until 31st January Switch Up will be collecting financial contributions to create its own food parcels for distribution across Nottingham and Mansfield, as well as accepting physical donations of food, toiletries, books, new toys and gifts.

Marcellus Baz , Switch Up chief executive and founder, said: “For the first time in the charity’s history we have a waiting list of individuals and families that need help. In addition to the mentoring and mental health support we provide to young people, we have been working to help anyone that is struggling with the daily cost of living. This additional service has been necessary since the pandemic and has had to come from our existing pot of funding. It was, therefore, essential to launch the Switch Up Community Appeal for a second Christmas to meet this demand.

“It’s important to note that we aren’t doubling up on the efforts of our fantastic foodbanks, who we already work closely with. We will be working with schools, colleges and community groups to identify anyone slipping through the cracks; those who may be afraid to speak up. It’s important we reach them quickly during a season when depression and negative mental health peaks. Just £35 is enough to feed a family of four for a week so we’re encouraging donations both big and small.”

Packages of new or unused toys, long-life food, toiletries and gifts can be dropped off at either of the Switch Up centres in Mansfield or Nottingham. Volunteers will deliver goods and businesses who wish to provide support are also in demand.

Monetary donations can also be made via its donation page. All donations can go a long way to making a difference. To provide meals for up to week, a donation of £35 for a family parcel and £25 for a couple or single person is recommended.

A number of Nottinghamshire businesses and organisations, including Nottingham City of Literature, Mansfield District Council, Lindley’s Autocentres, Oakfield Construction, Cartwright Communications, Chord Consult, Nottingham College, and 200 Degrees will be continuing their support of Switch Up by donating their time, collecting funds, and items for the appeal. Any businesses or individuals interested in getting involved can contact Janet Cooper, business support lead.