Discover the true meaning of Diwali with the Basket Brigade in Manchester

In a heartwarming display of unity and compassion, the Diwali Basket Brigade (DBB) is gearing up to make an even greater impact this year by delivering an impressive 5,000 food hampers to vulnerable families across the UK.

Since its founding seven years ago, DBB has touched the lives of over 14,000 families across the UK, thanks to the efforts of volunteers and the generosity of donors.

The initiative, which began in Birmingham, now spans four major cities—Birmingham, Manchester, London, and Leicester.

Deepa Parekh, who takes care of the Manchester event said: “It started in Birmingham, and I kept getting onto the organiser about starting one in Manchester.

“He always wanted to expand, so we finally went for it,  and we’ve seen a huge growth of numbers over the two years.

“The core team now runs four sites in Birmingham, Manchester, London and Leicester.

“The Manchester event has doubled in terms of volunteers and the number of hampers distributed. We aim for it to grow every year and involve more people.

‘We’re hoping this year’s event will be the biggest one yet.”

The initiative has grown exponentially, distributing more than 14,000 hampers over the years and reaching over 57,000 people.

As the DBB expands, so too does its reach, creating a wave of goodwill that now includes the communities of Birmingham, Manchester, London, and Leicester

The Diwali Basket Brigade

Now in its seventh year, the DBB is gearing up for its biggest annual event yet, where 5,000 hampers packed with essentials and messages of goodwill will be distributed to families in need.

DBB is more than a charitable event—it’s a powerful symbol of community spirit.

Volunteers from all walks of life, backgrounds, and faiths come together for the packing events, which this year will take place on October 26th and 27th.

In Manchester, hundreds of people will gather to pack and deliver hampers filled with non-perishable food items, toiletries, and handmade Diwali cards, each one representing a message of hope and support.

“That’s what makes it so special,” Deepa explained.

“Diwali is a Hindu festival, but its message of hope and light transcends all boundaries. Our volunteers come from every faith imaginable, and seeing them come together like this is truly beautiful.”

Founded in 2018 by Deepa and a small team of passionate volunteers, DBB started as a community initiative aimed at helping those facing food insecurity during Diwali, a festival that signifies the triumph of light over darkness.

“A nationwide movement”

The Diwali Basket Brigade works with over 40 local charities and food banks, including Homeless Aid, Coffee4Craig, Emerge Café, and Salford Food Bank, among others.

These partnerships help ensure that hampers reach families and individuals in need, offering them not only food but also a sense of connection and community.

Food insecurity in the UK has risen sharply in recent years, and the need for support is more pressing than ever.

For many who will receive hampers this year, the DBB’s efforts are a lifeline during difficult times.

This year’s event will take place over the weekend of October 26th and 27th, with volunteers gathering in Manchester on the Sunday to pack hampers filled with non-perishable food items, toiletries, and a handmade Diwali card.

At just £10 each, these hampers are designed to provide not only sustenance but also a sense of warmth and connection to those who may be struggling.

For those involved, DBB has become more than just a charity—it’s a powerful symbol of community spirit.

The hampers will be distributed to families and individuals via over 40 local charities and food banks, ensuring that the support reaches those who need it most.

The DBB has also formed strong partnerships with these organisations, helping them extend their impact at a time when many face increased demand for services.

The need is undeniable.

According to recent studies, food insecurity in the UK has risen sharply, with more families than ever relying on food banks and charities to get by. For those who will receive hampers this year, DBB’s efforts are a lifeline during an increasingly difficult time.

But what makes DBB so unique is that it’s entirely volunteer-run and funded by donations.

Every contribution goes directly toward purchasing items for the hampers, and every hand that helps pack and deliver them is a volunteer’s hand. For those who wish to support this incredible cause, there are several ways to get involved.

How to get involved

Supporting the Diwali Basket Brigade couldn’t be easier, and there are multiple ways for individuals to contribute. Monetary donations can be made through the DBB’s JustGiving page, accessible via a QR code available on their website.

You can donate by following the link here

Donations of any amount are appreciated, as each hamper costs £10 to assemble.

With each year, the Diwali Basket Brigade grows, reaching more people and creating a sense of unity and compassion that is truly inspiring.

As Deepa reflects on the upcoming event, she’s optimistic: “This year, we’re breaking records. We have 1,000 hampers planned for Manchester alone. 5,000 across the UK.  I hope our efforts will remind everyone that, together, we can overcome any challenge. Diwali may be a Hindu festival, but its message of hope and light is for everyone.”

As Manchester prepares to celebrate Diwali, the DBB stands as a beacon of hope, showing that a small act of kindness can indeed light up the world.

For more information on how to support this incredible initiative, visit Diwali Basket Brigade’s website by clicking here