It's the city charity which hands out 20 tonnes of food to people in need in Southampton every month. 

The Big Difference was set up just over three years ago and helps to distribute food to more than 100 groups with donations so far totalling over £3 million. 

It has now partnered with Southampton City Council to pilot 14 breakfast clubs across the city, feeding more than 100 children. 

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Volunteers for The Big Difference, which became an independent charity in February, says school leaders have been surprised at the success of the scheme. 

Founder and chief executive Dr Sanjay Mall told the Daily Echo:  "Teachers have been amazed how this is encouraging kids to come into school which in itself has been a blessing for the teachers. The impact this is having on kids who are hungry helps with their mental and physical health which can create a positive environment for teaching and learning.

"The Big Difference continues to grow with an increasing number of donor partners coming on board reaching so many families in need.

"Families are really feeling the impact from the cost of living crisis. With food costs up over 20 percent and fuel bills at a high and interest rates at record levels having gone up 14 times rapidly, people are seriously struggling."

Daily Echo: Volunteers from The Big Difference with food to donate

Mark Grove, Facilities Manager for Inspire Learning Partnership, is a big fan of the charity. 

He added: "Blackfield Primary, Kanes Hill Primary, Hightown Primary, St Monica Primary and Fawley Infants, are extremely grateful and appreciative of the support and efforts that The Big Difference have shared with the families within our five schools this year during the cost of living crisis and now with the extra pressure this time of year brings.

"The team at The Big Difference always go above and beyond to ensure our schools are well supported. Today we collected Milk (200 pints), eggs (1,000), ham sandwiches (1,000 packs) and chicken and Chocolate chip brioche for all five schools!

"We look forward to our continued partnership in 2024."