A housing association has joined forces with Hampshire County Council and a food rescue charity to feed more than 5,500 households.

More than 22 tonnes of food that would have ended in the bin has been distributed to the less fortunate thanks to a partnership between HCC, Vivid and UKHarvest.

The former two donated sums of £63,500 and £8,000 while the latter headed the initiative by collecting surplus produce from growers, producers, distribution outlets and other charities.

Vivid HCC UkHarvest Food Donation Pic2
The hope is that the year-long project will grow into a sustainable and ongoing venture. (Vivid Homes)

Everything collected is delivered to local organisations at no extra cost, ensuring food that would otherwise go to waste is given to people who need it.

Targets have been smashed with more than 22.7 tonnes of food being distributed to 31 organisations like foodbanks, charities and community pantries.

Some 5,642 households have received food with hopes high that the year-long project will grow into a sustainable and ongoing venture.