Families from across North Bristol are set to benefit after a successful hamper appeal by Southern Brooks Community Partnership.
The charity asked schools, churches and residents to donate non-perishable foods and small gifts to make up hampers for local people who struggle financially at Christmas time.
Speaking about the appeal, Corrina Wood, Family Intervention Manger at Southern Brooks Community Partnership, said:
“We are in contact with over 100 families at any one time, many experiencing financial difficulties. The added strain of Christmas can, for some, be too much to bear. Research suggests that this is also a time when domestic abuse can escalate. Providing the family with additional food and gifts at Christmas can really reduce the stress.”
“Thanks to the generosity of local people this year has been our most successful to date, with over 60 boxes donated. In the current economic climate need is greater than ever so I’m delighted that we’ll be able to help more families this Christmas.”
The hampers will all be distributed to families in Patchway, Filton, Bradley Stoke, Stoke Gifford and Stoke Park in time for Christmas.
Photo: Lucas Martin (left) from Southern Brooks handing a hamper to local resident Bob Bentley.
Lovely idea, although I am a little confused isn’t Mr Bentley the current caretaker at Meadowbrook Primary School in Bradley Stoke?
I know many other working parents / parents on benefits who struggle financially at Christmas, who would be extremely grateful to receive such a food parcel, who should I pass their names on to?
I am afraid we cannot comment on individual cases for reasons of confidentiality and this is not the forum to do so, but I can assure you that all requests for hampers are thoroughly vetted and delivered to families that meet our criteria.
Referrals usually come from schools, health visitors, GP’s, social services and our own family support workers.
Every year we manage to meet demand (just!) with the wonderful support of the public, local churches and our supporters. If you would like to nominate a family to receive a hamper please contact me via the Southern Brooks website http://www.sbcommunitypartnership.org.uk