Thanks to the support of the local community nobody in West Somerset should be going without Christmas food treats this year, even as energy bills soar and the cost-of-living rises. Jennifer Duke, The High Sheriff of Somerset joined volunteers at West Somerset Food Cupboard to pack Christmas Bags, ready for distribution to local people who might be feeling pressure on their household budgets in the expensive run-up to Christmas.
The operation was the result of several months activity – October was the planning and communication, November saw many local people donate Christmas goodies to the supermarket collection points, with the festive packing taking place in early December.
81 big bags for families and 74 small bags for couples or small households will be delivered across West Somerset by 12 different support groups, including Magna Housing, Home-Start West Somerset and Rotary who are taking parcels to 7 Ukrainian families.
The bags themselves were very kindly paid for by Love Somerset Online – an online shop that showcases some of Somerset’s most talented makers and creatives.
Jennifer Duke said
“Thank-you to all the volunteers who do an incredible job at such a busy time of year, and also a very big thank-you to everyone in West Somerset who so generously donates to the Food Cupboard. What an extraordinary operation it is with drivers, packers and many partner agencies. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being part of a dedicated team.”
Ali Sanderson, West Somerset Food Cupboard Co-ordinator said
“The response for our Christmas Bags has been wonderful and will make a difference for those in our community who are struggling to make ends meet in difficult circumstances. We are so grateful to everyone who has helped out; all the volunteers, the staff at Minehead Hospital who collected food, local community groups, our supermarkets who collect food and sometimes donate surplus goods, and anyone else who has popped something in a collection point or donated money – a massive thank-you!”
