Why it matters: The donation is the largest single contribution from a private individual in the food bank's history and will help sustain support for local families experiencing financial hardship.
Kevin Craig, founder and CEO of public relations agency PLMR, made the donation following his recent visit to meet volunteers at the charity's distribution centre. The London and Suffolk-based entrepreneur, who works in Ipswich and lives in Felixstowe, first encountered the food bank during his time as Labour candidate for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich in the 2024 General Election.
What he's saying: "This week I saw again the compassion, professionalism and kindness that defines Ipswich Family Bank," Craig said. "I had a humble upbringing, had free school meals, and I remember all too well how hard my mum and dad worked to put food on the table for me and my sister."
Craig, who grew up on a council estate in London with his Irish immigrant parents, said the experience of visiting the food bank had stayed with him since the election campaign. The day after his visit, he tweeted that whatever the outcome of the General Election, he was going to support Ipswich Family Bank "in whatever capacity he could."
The bigger picture: Craig has committed to volunteering monthly at the food bank starting in July 2025 and plans to make further significant donations to local causes. The entrepreneur, who carried the Olympic torch through London in 2012 in recognition of his charity work, has previously supported Felixstowe Coastal Patrol and East Anglia Children's Hospices.
What they're saying: Michelle Symonds, who started the Ipswich baby bank branch under Suffolk Babybank in 2020, said Craig's support "arrived at exactly the right time."
"We are blown away by the generosity," Symonds said. "When we met Kevin during the election campaign last year, we could see how moved he was about what we were doing. He made us feel so proud about the work we do."
The details: Ipswich Family Bank is run by volunteers who help people of all ages, from pre-birth through adulthood. The charity receives requests for help through its networks and Facebook page from schools, health visitors, midwives, nurseries and children's centres. Weekly food parcels are made up from donations from Morrisons, Asda and Suffolk County Council.
The bottom line: Craig's donation will help ensure the food bank can continue providing vital support to local families during their hardest moments.
