Why it matters: The donation will allow the volunteer-led foodbank to purchase immediate essentials like nappies, toiletries and food for families struggling through what founder Michelle Symonds calls "the most difficult time of year".
The details: The PLMR Genesis team joined 20 other volunteers at the Christmas Hamper Wrapping Day on Tuesday, 17 December, helping prepare parcels to be distributed to local people in need.
The team has been supporting the charity throughout 2025, building and launching a new website to raise awareness of the foodbank's work in the community.
What they're saying: Michelle Symonds, founder of Ipswich Family Bank, said: "We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the PLMR Genesis team. This donation is more than just money. It's vital support that allows us to purchase immediate essentials like nappies, toiletries, and food for families who are really struggling."
"Christmas is the most difficult time of year for the people we support, and this contribution will ensure more local families can get through the festive season and look ahead to the New Year with a little less worry, knowing they have much needed support on hand."
A volunteer who previously received help from the charity shared her experience: "When I met Michelle and the team I realised how in need of their help I was, and it was such a relief to receive their support. The Ipswich Family Bank became a safe place for me to ask for help when I needed it."
"I received regular help from them and always had in mind that I'd like to give back in some way when I was back on my feet. Their support felt lovely when I was in need, and now I love being part of the wonderful team that helped me."
Tim Miller, managing director of PLMR Genesis, added: "For the whole team, it has been a real privilege getting to know the volunteers at the Ipswich Family Bank over the last few months. They're an amazing group of people and give so much of their time every year to help local families."
We were immediately struck by their kindness and selflessness. They go out of their way to help people in need every day, so to be able to contribute to this in a small way is something we were very keen to do. We're proud of our Ipswich roots and believe strongly that by working together with local charities and organisations, we can help make a real positive difference to the lives of people living in the town.
For context: Founded in 2020, Ipswich Family Bank is a volunteer-led initiative that distributes weekly food parcels, clothes, hygiene items and household essentials to families in need.
Each year, PLMR, founded by prominent Suffolk businessman Kevin Craig, donates 5% of profits to charity. The Ipswich Family Bank was selected as one of the recipients after the team saw first-hand the impact of their work.
The bottom line: The donation and volunteer effort highlight how local businesses can make a tangible difference to families in need, with PLMR Genesis's support ensuring more people can face Christmas with a little less worry.
