Students are taking to the streets of Jesmond this Halloween, but this year there is a charitable twist to their trick or treating. Rather than ask for the usual sugary treats, students will collect food donations to give to homeless people in the city.

Organised by Newcastle University Students’ Union (NUSU), the event will take place tonight (Thursday 31 October) from 6pm to 9pm. Around 50 students have signed up to take part so far and volunteers and event organisers have been leafleting to spread the word further. 

Event organisers say they pleased with the response so far. Adam Kineen, who was involved with setting up the initiative, said: “The attitude toward helping others in this city is second to none and the response from people who have heard the idea has been unbelievable. It’s quickly turned into a much larger idea because of the support from everyone across the city and now it’s quite the operation.”

All donations collected will be delivered tomorrow to Newcastle East Foodbank, in Heaton. A collection point has been set up in NUSU for those who want to donate but are unable to take part. Tesco in Gateshead has also set up a donations trolley to aid the cause.  

If you would like to get involved in tonight’s initiative, you can sign up to the Facebook event page here. 

Newcastle City Council has set itself a target to end rough sleeping in the city and ensure that no one in Newcastle needs to be homeless. If you see a rough sleeper in need of help, the council encourages you to email roughsleeping@newcastle.gov.uk.