Derby County Community Trust is challenging the people of Derby to help collect 1,000 food parcels this Christmas as the Reverse Advent Calendar returns for its fifth year in partnership with Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance. 

The campaign brings together local residents and businesses to support people experiencing food insecurity and financial hardship, with every donation helping provide essential items to those who need them.

Putting a twist on the traditional advent calendar, participants are encouraged to add an item to a collection box each day between Friday 6th November and Monday 30th November. By the end of the campaign, the box will contain 25 items to help make up a food parcel, with suggested donations including tinned and long-life food, household essentials and festive treats. 

Now celebrating its fifth year, the campaign aims to build on the generosity shown by the local community over the last four years, with a target of 1,000 food parcels for 2026. Whether taking part individually or organising a collection at work or within a community group, everyone is encouraged to get involved.

Every donation will help Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance and its partner food projects provide essential items to people across the city, making a difference to local families during the festive period.

Completed parcels can be delivered to Harrison’s Hub at Pride Park Stadium on Wednesday 2^nd December between 12pm and 3pm, or Thursday 3rd December between 4pm and 6pm.

As an added thank-you, full food parcels delivered to the donation points at Pride Park Stadium will qualify for two complimentary tickets to Derby County’s fixture against Queens Park Rangers on Tuesday 16th February 2027, gifted by Derby County Football Club. Please note tickets are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis, with a maximum of 10 tickets per organisation/drop-off to ensure fair distribution.

Ready to take part? The full Reverse Advent Calendar, including the list of items to collect, can be found below: