'Foodbankathon' to take place for second year

A food bank founder is hoping to highlight just how much his city needs them by visiting more than a dozen during a walking challenge.

Canon Gavin Kibble MBE, 60, will attempt what has been dubbed The Great Coventry Foodbankathon, for the second year in a row.

The 21-mile (34km) route will see him go to all the city’s 15 food banks, on 6 May, to raise money.

The walk comes just two years after Canon Kibble suffered a heart attack and he is hoping members of the public will join him on all or part of the walk.

"We find ourselves in uncharted territory," he said.

"The current cost of living crisis has affected everyone with higher energy costs, housing and mortgage rises and especially food costs.

"Last year, we saw donations plummet while demand for our service has risen exponentially."

The Foodbankathon, which also took place last year, will start at Coventry's most westerly food bank, at St Stephen’s Church, Canley, at 09:00 BST.

Canon Kibble is expecting to take nine hours to complete the challenge, which will end at St Catherine’s Church in Stoke Aldermoor.

Other locations will include Allesley Park Evangelical Church, the Foleshill Baptist Church and Willenhall Foodbank.

More than 250,000 people have received food from the banks, which distribute food through 13 partner churches, since Canon Kibble founded it 13 years ago, he said.

“I’d love it if as many people as possible could join me on this pilgrimage," he continued.

“If you don’t fancy taking part and aren’t able to give money, you can help by raising awareness of the Foodbankathon and on the day you are welcome to come and support those doing the walk.”

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