Arla, a leading dairy cooperative, has partnered with charities across Wales to provide fully-stocked fridges, improving access to fresh dairy products for those in need. This initiative aims to address the lack of refrigeration that prevents many food banks from offering nutritious dairy options, supporting community health and well-being.
Arla, a leading dairy cooperative, is taking significant steps to support local charities across Wales by providing fully-stocked and sponsored fridges to various organizations. This initiative aims to improve access to fresh dairy products for those in need, ensuring that vulnerable communities can benefit from nutritious options.
Among the charities participating in this initiative are Sirhowy Community Centre, Canolfan y Bont Food Bank, and Cwtch Angels Abergavenny. The program is designed to address a critical issue highlighted by the charity FareShare, which reported that approximately 450,000 individuals relying on its services do not have adequate access to fresh dairy products, often due to insufficient refrigeration. A survey conducted among FareShare’s charity partners revealed that 96% face high demand for fresh dairy but lack the storage capacity to meet users’ needs.
The absence of proper refrigeration prevents many charities from offering essential dairy items such as milk, yogurt, and cheese. Recognizing the importance of increased access to dairy, Arla is committed to bridging this gap. The company has a long-standing partnership with FareShare, spanning over eight years, during which it has helped divert the equivalent of more than 10 million meals to those in need throughout the UK. This initiative aligns with Arla’s mission to promote good nutrition and improve food accessibility, particularly for those who depend on food banks and community support programs.
Research conducted by Arla highlights a broader issue regarding dairy accessibility in the UK. The findings reveal that half of the British population cannot imagine a day without milk, with 76% consuming it regularly. However, 62% of respondents were unaware that many food banks lack the necessary refrigeration to store fresh dairy products. By supplying fridges to local charities, Arla is making a concerted effort to ensure that nutritious dairy options are available to more people, fostering healthier eating habits and supporting community well-being.
