Local foodbanks are calling for donations of everyday essentials as families face extra pressure during the school summer holidays.

To help shoppers support their local communities, supermarket Aldi is promoting the products charities say are needed most, making it easier for local customers to donate while doing their regular shop.

According to Aldi’s charity partner Neighbourly, the most in-demand items this summer are: tinned food, toiletries, tea/coffee, breakfast cereals, juices and soft drinks, UHT milk, laundry and cleaning products, rice and pasta, cooking sauces/oils/condiments, pet food and baby essentials.

Customers can donate any of these items at community collection points in Aldi stores, with all donations distributed to local foodbanks and charities.

Luke Emery, National Sustainability Director at Aldi UK, says: “The summer holidays can be a particularly difficult time for many families, with the cost of keeping children fed while they’re home from school putting extra pressure on household budgets.

“We know our customers are incredibly generous and want to support people in their local communities. Even adding just one extra everyday essential to your weekly shop can make a real difference.”

Steve Butterworth, CEO at Neighbourly, says: “When schools break up for summer, many families lose access to the support they rely on during term time, while household food costs often increase. That’s why donations of everyday essentials are so important.”

Alongside customer donations, Aldi expects to donate an estimated two million meals to charities, foodbanks and community organisations across the UK this summer, helping ensure good food reaches people instead of going to waste.

Donations can also be made at most branches of other major supermarkets.