Why it matters: The ongoing cost of living crisis continues to impact families across Suffolk, with Ipswich now ranking in the top 50 worst places for child poverty in the UK. Recent Department for Work and Pensions figures show a 28% increase in child poverty in the past year alone.
The big picture: The fan-led initiative has become a cornerstone of many supporters' pre-match routine, with collection points in the FanZone and opposite Planet Blue welcoming donations from both home and away fans. The group is part of the national Fans Supporting Foodbanks movement, which spans over 40 clubs across English football under the principle that "Hunger Doesn't Wear Club Colours."
What they're saying: Organiser Charlie Nixon commented: "As we enter our fourth season, we're incredibly proud of what our community has achieved. Over £20,000 raised and countless physical donations show the true spirit of football fans coming together for those who need it most. Whether it's a child donating their pocket money or away fans contributing from across the country, every gesture makes a real difference to families struggling with food poverty in Suffolk."
The details: Throughout their three completed seasons, the group has witnessed generosity from supporters of all visiting clubs, from whip-arounds on away coaches to carrier bags full of donations. The initiative began in January 2023 and has raised over £20,000 alongside countless crates of physical donations for Families in Need (FIND).
What's next: Collection points will be open from 10:00 before kick-off, welcoming both cash donations and non-perishable food items.
The group has scheduled ten fixtures throughout the season:
Southampton (17 August, 12:00)
Portsmouth (27 September, 15:00)
Norwich City (5 October, 12:00)
Wrexham (22 November, 15:00)
Sheffield Wednesday (20 December, 15:00)
Blackburn Rovers (17 January, 15:00)
Hull City (14 February, 15:00)
Leicester City (7 March, 15:00)
Middlesbrough (18 April, 15:00)
Queens Park Rangers (2 May, 15:00).
The bottom line: As Town look to bounce back into the riches of the Premier League at the first time of asking, their supporters continue demonstrating that football's power extends far beyond the 90 minutes on the pitch, providing crucial support to local families in need.
