Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance

Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance are opening up a new shop at Derby Market Hall, offering vital support to the Derby community through two essential services under one roof!

Community Food Support Shop

We understand the challenges families are facing, and our Community Shop is here to help provide necessary relief.

• Tackling the Cost of Living: We offer essential food support to those struggling with the rising cost of living.
• Targeted Support: We provide help to vulnerable individuals and families, including those fleeing domestic violence.
• Request Support: Access food support by requesting a Food Parcel at Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance.
  

School Uniform Support

We are proud to launch the only year-round service of its kind in Derby providing accessible school uniform for families.

• Year-Round Access: Get support for school uniform needs at any time, moving beyond limited seasonal drives.
• Pre-Loved Uniform: We offer high-quality, pre-loved uniforms to ease the financial burden of back-to-school shopping.
• Small Charge, Big Impact: Uniforms are offered for a small charge. Every penny is reinvested directly into running the shop and purchasing new stock to keep the service going.
• Community Donations Welcome: Help us help others! Please donate your good-quality, unwanted school uniform items via the donation box in place at Derby Market Hall.

By shopping with us or donating, you are directly supporting the Derby Food 4 Thought Alliance and helping local families facing financial hardship.

About 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. 

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.