Hexham McDonald's Steps Up to Support Our Community This Winter

With winter demand for food support rising, Hexham McDonald's has joined us in a new partnership to make a difference for local families. Owner, Henry Terefenko and his team are launching seasonal fundraisers to help us reach more people in need this season. 

​As the colder months set in and demand for support rises, we're thrilled to share news of a new partnership with Hexham McDonald's. Henry Terefenko, the new owner of the Hexham franchise, reached out to us with a genuine interest in how he and his team could make a difference for local families this winter. After a recent visit to our food bank, Henry was moved by the pressing need for support and has pledged to launch a series of seasonal, staff-led fundraising activities to help meet the demand we’re facing.

Hexham McDonald's owner, Henry Terfenko (centre) visits West Northumberland Food Bank

“When I met with Sam and the team, I could see the urgency first-hand,” Henry explained. “This winter, more people are likely to turn to the food bank for help, and I wanted my team to do something meaningful to support them. We’re starting with seasonal activities, but we hope this is just the beginning of our involvement.”
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Henry’s visit to our food bank opened a dialogue about the unique challenges we’re facing this winter. Following this, he invited our team to his McDonalds restaurant for a behind the scenes tour, demonstrating his enthusiasm and commitment to giving back. From here, his team will be rolling out seasonal fundraisers, beginning with Christmas Jumper Day, with all proceeds going directly to help us meet rising demand.
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Our Chief Executive, Sam, expressed our appreciation for Henry’s proactive approach, “Having a local business leader like Henry take the time to understand our challenges makes all the difference. He listened to the pressures we’re facing and genuinely grasped the strain this season places on us and the people we help,” Sam explained. 

"With winter demand higher than ever, partnerships like these are essential to sustaining our services. Every bit of support helps, but when businesses like Hexham McDonald's commit to ongoing fundraising, it really strengthens our ability to reach more people."
​Sam Gilchrist, Chief Executive, West Northumberland Food Bank

​This partnership with Hexham McDonald's demonstrates the powerful impact local businesses can make when they actively invest in the communities they serve. Henry’s approach is about more than just fundraising for us; it’s about rallying his team around a cause that truly matters. “It’s about showing my team and our customers that we’re here to support our community when it’s needed most,” Henry explained. “I’m proud of my team for stepping up and embracing this opportunity.”

We’re incredibly grateful to Henry and his team for their support, and we look forward to sharing updates on their fundraising efforts.

Get in touch

If you or your business is interested in partnering with us this winter, please get in touch by emailing: [email protected]