As the first volunteer at her local Tesco, Nichola has built strong friendships with store colleagues and neighbours alike.
A simple act that creates ripple effects 🌊
Every week, she uses a trolley to pick up bread, sandwiches, salads, and pastries, then shares them through the Olio app. It’s a simple act that creates ripple effects – bringing people together, starting conversations, and helping others feel supported.
Some come for the food, while others just want to connect 🤝
“I’ve met people I never would have crossed paths with,” Nichola says. “Some come for the food, while others just want to connect. It’s become part of the fabric of our community.”
But the biggest changes have happened in Nichola’s own life. Through volunteering, she’s become more mindful about how she lives – feeding birds with leftover crumbs, composting at home, cutting down on packaging, and rethinking daily choices. It’s inspired a shift toward living more consciously, one thoughtful habit at a time.
Nichola also shares: “Sometimes my son collects with me – so my collections are helping to teach the next generation about food waste and sustainability. It’s been a beautiful journey we’ve been on together.”
“Tesco’s food donations bring people together”
Nichola explains what she’s learned with others too – raising awareness about sharing resources, and showing that small actions can lead to meaningful change. Whether it’s helping a neighbour, chatting with Tesco colleagues, or welcoming someone new to the app, Nichola sees each moment as a chance to connect.
“Tesco’s food donations bring people together. And they’ve helped me grow personally, too.”
Nichola’s journey is a celebration of community, care, and the power of simple, shared acts.
Want to find out more?
Whether you’re ready to get started as a volunteer, or you’re a business with surplus food to share, we’d love to hear from you👇