Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance

Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance (DF4TA) began in March 2020 as an emergency response to the pandemic. What started as crisis support has grown into a coordinated citywide network tackling food insecurity and the wider challenges of poverty and inequality in Derby.

Today, we source and distribute food to 18 food projects—including community shops, food banks and pantries—and to over 30 community groups providing meals across the city. 

This work is only possible thanks to fundraising and financial donations, which keep supplies flowing to where they’re needed most. Each month, we handle around 450 referrals for food support and manage over 1,800 related calls, making sure people can access the right help when they need it.

In 2024 we established Derby Furniture & Electrical Project, helping people in crisis to create safe, stable homes without having to choose between making a home or putting food on the table.

Beyond food and furniture, we provide school uniforms, winter coats, Christmas hampers and community Christmas meals, ensuring families have the basics they need throughout the year. 

At the heart of everything we do is a belief in dignity and the power of community: to change lives, bring people together, and build a fairer Derby for everyone.